mcannady1 Reviews

One Step Beyond: Premonition (1959) Season 1, Episode 8

One Step Beyond - Premonition - A Multi-Faceted Episode

[9/10 · 11 January 2018]

When I was very young in the early 60's, I saw this episode for the first time with my family. We were all intrigued, and it has been my favorite episode over the years.

However, I was amazed to find a different denouement than I had previously thought when I first viewed it.

About ten years ago I purchased a book that contains all of the One Step Beyond episodes. Well-written and informative, I really enjoyed it.

However, upon looking up Premonition, It differed greatly in my opinion when viewing the ending.

Spoiler - At the end of the episode, Lisa's mother is dancing happily around the ballroom, secure in the supposition that the chandelier is not harmful after all. The family is preparing for the engagement party of her daughter, and it is many years later.

Lisa is very happy, dancing arond the room at her daughter's engagement party. She is no longer worried about the chandelier falling. The beautiful, menacing fixture seems to be safely in place after many years had elapsed since her frightening nightmares as a child.

The party progresses, and all are happy laughing and talking around the buffet. Suddenly, a scream breaks out and we hear the scary sound of all the crystals tinkling together in the chandelier. It crashes to the floor!

I could be wrong, and it seems like I was mistaken. Here is what I had always figured.

I had always thought that the tinkling sound of the chandelier was a final warning preceding it falling. Lisa screams just in time to save her family.

Had she not had the scary experience of the nightmares of the chandelier dropping on her when she was an eleven year old girl, she would never have glanced up just in time and screamed to save her daughter and her fiancee. Though many years later, Lisa realizes that this is the terrifying realization of her nightmares.

In the book and on this site, I read that Lisa is not the intended victim, but the chandelier does eventually fall and kills many in the wedding party. So her premonitions did not save anyone in time. However, she was not the ultimate victim.

The Woman in White (1948)

The Woman in White - 1947 - 7 and 1982 - 10.

[9/10 · 25 November 2017]

First, just a few words about the original version of the film. The beautiful, sensitive music by Max Steiner, the all-star cast, and fantastic photography of London locales combined make the film well-worth watching. To all this we have the romance of the story which is quite enlivened by underlying evil of some of the key characters.

However, some of the important events are quite different in the novel. If we view the superb adaptation of the 1982 version with Alan Badel and Diana Quick, we will ultimately see the true story in pretty much its entirety. The ending that puzzles us in the 40s version is resolved once we see the newer version or read the novel.

We still have a happy ending per see, but it is the one intended by the author and reasonably derived from the story in the film.

I think the reason they changed the punch-line and Walter married the wrong girl, is because Laura's half=sister Marian has worked tirelessly to help her sister. Yes, we would love her to get together with Walter. However, it is best to re-unite Walter with Laura, as they had realized their love for each other early in the story. She only marries Sir Percival because her father had wanted her to do so. Soon she discovers that he is cruel and conniving. At the time their house guests, Count and Countess Fosco appear to be friends.

Complicating matters further, we see The Count making overtures to Marian Halcomb, and even writing in her diary about his feelings when she is sick with fever.

Coincidentally, I have been re-reading the novel by Wilkie Collins and find it very unique. Not only is the book rather lengthy, the story is told by different character's perceptions. It is like a recipe for a cake or a favorite dinner dish. WHen we put together all of the characters and their story of what had taken place, we zoom in on the real events. Ultimately we see revealed the conspiracy that dupes innocent pawn, Ann Catherick, and the innocent heiress, Laura Fairlie. Both girls are treated badly for the purpose of financial gain.

Ann had hoped to meet Laura and speak to her of Sir Percival's evil secret. Laura had left home, thinking her half-sister Merian, would be at the Count's home. So both girls believe they will meet with each other.

The most evil character, Count Fosco, appears to be kind and chivalrous, while assisting his friend, Sir Percival Glyde, in receiving his wife's 30 thousand pounds at her death. Under his mask of kindness, The Count tricks Ann CAtherick into thinking she will meet with Laura Fairlie on an important matter. She had recently escaped from a mental asylum, having been unfairly committed by Sir Percival Glyde, who fears she knows his secret. At the time his plans begin to fail, as he does not know Ann has a serious heart condition. Concurrently, he switches her identity with Laura Fairlie; returning Laura to the asylum under Ann's name.

Having switched both girls, The Count is ready to help his friend, Sir Percival Glyde, to receive the money prematurely. Sir Percival, rude and unkind to his wife Laura, is ready to receive his friend's help, no matter how it works out. The diabolical nobleman dies in a fire in the church which might have revealed in its registers that he should not have the title or the money he presently has.

After "Lady Glyde" has died, Walter Hartwright the drawing master who loves her, returns and begins to work out details of the conspiracy. He finds Laura at the cemetery and realized that Ann has been buried mistakenly as Lady Glyde, He and Marian, Laura's half-sister, assist in discovering the true scheme, unaided by Laura's uncle who believes Count Fosco and his wife who assert that she is dead. He is selfish and indolent, staying calm at all costs. Walter realizes that Laura needs to be recognized in her true identity, as Mr. Fairlie will not let her in the house with Marian. Thus, she will not have her status or her money. Walter and Marian work tirelessly to discover the scheme, interview witnesses, and seek legal aid. At the same time, they discover that Laura has memory blocks about her time in the asylum So, with all that said, both versions are well-worth watching, and so is the novel to be read.

For anyone who has not seen Alan Badel's fabulous 1982 performance as The Count, it is quite a treat. Also, as was stated in other reviews, the wonderful Sydney Greenstreet as Count Fosco, and Agnes Morehead is also superb as Countess Fosco. A last few words is giving merit to the wonderful Eleanor Parker in the dual role in the film. She is great as the lovely Laura Fairlie and as The Woman in White.

My score for the 1982 version is a 10. For the 1947 version, I score a 7, as two very important aspects of the story are changed toward the ending.

Great Expectations (1934)

Great Expectations '34 - A Cut Masterpiece

[8/10 · 3 November 2017]

About two years ago I had written a review of this fine film and wanted to add a footnote. It seems easier to begin again with a few pertinent comments, so I wanted to mention that this is my favorite version of the film. Although I like the David Lean version from '46, this is the one I prefer. I love the lovely casting of the characters, the beautiful sets and charming music depicting new events in the life of the orphan boy, Pip.

About 30 years ago my husband and I enjoyed this film from a Family Festival, like it mentions here. It was on one weekend and was shown in its entirety. Shortly afterwards, I needed a blank tape at a moment's notice, and taped over it. A real mistake, because all subsequent screenings have cut out Valerie Hobson's part entirely as Biddy, governess to Pip. She was also the nurse to Mrs. Jo, Pip's sister.

Also missing is a scene of the vengeful man who worked in the forge for Pip's brother-in-law. In this scene we learn that he had struck Pip's sister with a block of iron, and this is why they needed a nurse for Mrs Jo and a governess to Pip. Enter Biddy, who performed both functions ably.

Although the film still works without those scenes, the more cohesive pattern is of course with them. They are essentially key to the story, like vital links in a chain.

I am a collector of period pieces and try to understand why they would cut a film which was depicted so well. A real mystery to me is that they would do this fifty years after the fact! My husband and I think there were 2 films sent to the movie studio that day, and the one we saw was complete. Upon subsequent screenings, I taped the movie 2 or 3 more times to no avail. In future it was impossible to obtain the film complete.

The American Film Institute book states that Valerie Hobson's part was deleted from the scenes in Great Expectations, 1934, This is incomprehensible to me. We have all heard of movies being cut before screening, but this film was clearly shown with the scenes up at least until somewhere in the 1980's. This was not to make way for commercials, as the eventual commercial release on Video, and later DVD, etc. is the 1 hour and 43 minutes (which lacks the scenes).

Although Valerie Hobson was fairly new to the movie world, she would shortly co-star in The Werewolf of London and The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Her fine screen presence and sincere acting enhanced many a 1930s film.

Thank you all for reading this. I have been on the trail for about 30 years now, searching for the complete film. If anyone knows where I can find it, please e-mail me (Janet) at [e-mail]. In retrospect, I should have called the TV station the next day to see if I could obtain the complete VHS, but never thought of doing so.

This said, I hope to find someone who knows where I can get a copy of the film on DVD or VHS. I just picked up a clue when Roy Leonard's name was mentioned as host of the TV Station. I had read this in a general description of the film, along with the comment about it being shown incomplete most of the time.

I Wake Up Screaming (1941)

I Wake Up Screaming - Great Film Noir!

[8/10 · 20 October 2017]

I grew up watching many fine mystery/suspense films on TV since the late 50's when I was little and all through the 60's. IT is special to me and was my first Film Noir, seen in '59 when I was 7 years old. I never forgot it, I was so impressed with Carole Landis and Betty Grable. All of the cast was outstanding. My mom and dad and big sister watched with me. Dad enjoyed pointing out the characters. At that time I learned about Carole Landis and Betty Grable, plus VIctor Mature, and Laird Creegar. What a marvelous cast! Elisha Cook, Jr. was the icing on the cake.

All through the Golden Age of films, they were referred to as Suspense or Murder Mysteries. I did not hear the term FIlm Noir until the 80's. IT well describes this film, which could come under any murder mystery heading.

After re-watching the film recently, I wondered about the title and also about the over-usage of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. I think both were subtle messages. The title may have referred to the shock and and grief Vicki Lynn's murder caused her sister and friends. This is what I had assumed years ago.

Secondly, regarding the music the subtle message of the film was quite simply, unexpected love between Jill and Frankie Christopher. Jill had disliked her sister's agent and blamed him for her murder. In any case, she was still in shock and hardly expected to fall in love. Frankie was feeling victimized by the murder, as he was a prime suspect. They were both deeply attracted to each other. This we could see at their initial meeting.

In closing, I just wanted to say that all the actors and actresses were superb in this film. I find this as a test of time. IF you feel empathy for the characters, they seem real and the film is more appealing.

We find ourselves feeling very sorry for Ed Cornell, the lonely policeman who wants to pin Vicki's murder on Frankie, as he feels that Vicki's success caused her murder. He had admired her from afar when she was still a waitress. Frankie's discovery of her had led to her murder.

Also, we feel empathy for lovely young Vicki, an early murder victim. Adding to the realism of the film, we see a film clip of Vicki singing, from her screen test. All of her friends see it and feel very sorry.

At the time I first saw the film, my parents mentioned about the early passing of Carole, with sadness and empathy. Also, I felt badly when learning about Laird Creegar, who had also died too young.

So I am still impressed, even after all this time and after viewing many more Film Noirs.

My Little Margie (1952–1955)

My Little Margie - The Best All Time Comedy!

[10/10 · 12 October 2017]

I just wanted to say a word or two about this wonderful 50's comedy. It has been my favorite since the late 50's when I was 6 and my sister was 9. We were thrilled with the show. I believe it was the characters enjoying working together, as Gale Storm asserted in her biography, I Ain't Down Yet.

As Margie got out of one scrape and into another (assisted or not) with Mrs. Odettes, Mr. Honeywell, etc., all the episodes were a delight to watch.

After viewing the show since I was little I have finally come full circle to the basic premise. After all this time - our sons saw an episode and figured it out first. Vern Albright loved his daughter Margie and did not believe she could meet anyone good enough to marry. Conversely, as Margie states from the pictures at the beginning of the show, she tries to look after her father; I believe she felt her widower dad would never find the right woman to remarry.

In the last episode when it appears like Margie is married and expecting a baby the excitement goes out of the show. Though Mrs. Odettes is hilarious running into people with a wedding cake and Mr. Albright and Mr. Honeywell look puzzled and shocked, the show was basically ending. For some time beautiful Roberta Townsend dreamed of the white picket fence and her own marital bliss with Vern.

As for Vern and his high-pitched voice, it only added to the mayhem and merriment of the show as he is continually plagued by his young daughter who was reasonably sure she knew what was best for him.

We really don't want it to ever end. So Vern feels that Freddie Wilson is a flake and doesn't like him. Other dates fizzle out for Margie, though many admirers appear here and there. Also. early on we see that Margie likes Roberta, a dress designer across the hall, but isn't ready to accept her as a new stepmother. The lovely and sophisticated Hilary Brooke is wonderful here. My sister and I were always happy to see all the characters on other shows. including Gertrude Hoffman and Willie Best.

An interesting thing in re-watching the first few episodes, Margie seems very much in love with Freddie, sitting on his lap and embracing him. Later we have: Go home, Freddie and This place confuses me! Even today my sister laughs away at Freddie's happy and innocent antics when it appears Margie will marry him. He skips up and down in Vern's office and lands on his side! Of course, Freddie knows Vern does not like him and makes things worse each time.

Also, we see early on that Roberta seems very much in love with Vern in an early episode.

Today's programs, I feel, are not up to the wonderful 50s programs it was my privilege to enjoy as a very young girl. The 60s were good too, but the 70s did not have the same panache. It is comedies like these that keep the romance alive today watching them.

My sincere thanks to all of the cast members. I was very happy to meet Gale Storm at a seminar in 2005. We became fast friends and she called me when I was going in to hospital for a spinal surgery. I will always remember her kindness and friendship, though we did not have a chance to meet again. She was just as I had always known she would be; warm, witty and kind.

Every time I watch my DVDs I remember two little girls sitting there watching - enthralled by the stars, the wonderful episodes, the great sets. What was there not to love?

Love Me Forever (1935)

Love Me Forever - Beautiful and Unforgettable!

[8/10 · 28 September 2017]

I taped this film several years ago and fell in love with the haunting singing of lovely Grace Moore as well as the love story. I Was quite impressed with Steve Corelli (portrayed beautifully by Leo Carrillo) who is already facing bankruptcy and is giving up his antiques for an auction. He meets and falls in love with this lovely singer. He gives up everything to get her the introduction to the Met. Though he realizes she does not love him, he continues on, even sacrificing his safety to a loan shark who will kill him if he does not return the money he borrowed.

This all transpires just as Grace's character decides to marry a man she doesn't love, but admires. When urged by her friend, Alan, she finally agrees.

Here I will not create a spoiler. Suffice it to say that I look forward to the last few minutes of the film as Marguerite gives her fine performance. I love her blowing kisses to someone in the audience.

Luis Alberni is fantastic as his best friend and co-night club owner who imparts a certain revelation to Marguerite before her performance...

I Am Suzanne! (1933)

I am Suzanne - Heartwarming and Unique

[10/10 · 5 September 2017]

A friend just sent me a great copy of this film. It is black and white, but primarily sepia-colored when the stage performances are shown.

From the first I felt an empathy for poor Suzanne who practiced for hours and was forced by her manager (well-played by Leslie Banks) to isolate from fans or friends. Her helper, "Mama", was in sympathy, but was out for what she could get. She tirelessly keeps Suzanne practicing her ballet steps.

When Suzanne meets Tony the puppeteer, her manager throws him out, as he fears she will leave the act. He is jealous in a personal sense as well. Even when Tony explains he wants to sketch a puppet of Suzanne, The Baron gets angry. Though he never appreciates her fine singing voice and her lovely stage dancing, he is quick to pocket a lot of Suzanne's earnings. He also uses psychology on Suzanne to get her to marry him. Hinting that she will be without her act if she does not, Suzanne is afraid to give up her dancing and singing. She almost tearfully asks "the Baron" to marry her and it is arranged.

When Suzanne (beautifully portrayed by Lillian Harvey) sang and did her stage performances, I felt pleasantly surprised by the lovely intertwining harmonies supplied by the puppeteers, who had their people sing and dance with lovely precision. The singing voices are reminiscent of the haunting harmonies of the voices in Merrie Melodies cartoons of the 30s and also films I love of the early 30s.

When Suzanne is doing her act "flying through the air" from the audience to the stage, Tony begs her not to marry the Baron. Thus, she recognizes feelings for him which cause her to miss-step. As she falls and ends up in hospital, Suzanne is encouraged by the doctor and Tony daily. Tony helps with her exercises and Suzanne is recovering. She does not wish to marry the Baron and tells him so.

I have not seen many puppet performances, but these are superb! The dancers are perfect replicas of Tony and Suzanne and dance beautifully in time to the music. I do like The Puppet People and a film with Lionel Barrymore where he wreaks vengeance on people, shrinking them to doll size. These are skillfully done, but show the real people in close-ups as well as the puppets.

In I Am Suzanne, we see more close-ups of the puppets. AS reviewers have already pointed out, Suzanne is confused about Tony's feelings when he proposes to her through the life-like puppet he has made of himself (and her). Later he explains that she, as a star, was an ideal to him. He never thought he would be close enough to propose marriage to her.

I will not spoil the denouement of the film for others. I think it is time well spent.

Search for Tomorrow (1951–1986)

Search for Tomorrow

[8/10 · 22 August 2017]

I really never saw many soaps. My mom was working when I was growing up in the 50s and 60s, so I pretty much watched TV series when we were home.

In the late 60s when I was 15 or so, I came to enjoy the show when I was out sick from school, and started to listen for the beautiful lead-in music.

It was very touching and uplifting, I remember. The next time I saw the show the music was the same.

I wonder if anyone remembers what the music sounded like in the late 60s - it was touching and almost other-worldly which fits the title well.

When I was out of school I started to watch it whenever I was home from a part-time job. I am hoping to find out about the music now. It may have changed over the years, but I would love to find a VHS or DVD depicting how it was.

Thanks!

Without Pity (1948)

[e-mail] - United States

[9/10 · 13 August 2017]

I saw this film for the first time last night. I recalled seeing Giulietta Massina in La Strada a few years ago and knew it would be worth watching, for this was an outstanding film with notable actors and a stunning performance by Giulietta Massina.

Without Pity is touching and well-filmed against realistic backdrops. The acting is quite pleasing, and one wishes the girl and Jerry's character to escape together in the end. Beyond that, I would have wished for them a Utopian environment where they could marry.

We know that Carla's character had a failed romance earlier. She could not go home, she says. She had had a baby who lived only 12 days.

Her good friend in the camp (played by Giulietta) escaped by boat and would marry her sweetheart.

Jerry realizes that she is not like some of the women in the camp. She explains this to him and reveals that she was captured while searching for her brother.

I like the slow build-up of their romance and Jerry's feeling that he wanted to be near her though she did not love him. Initially, she had helped save his life by discovering he needed a doctor for his wounds and stopping the train. When they meet again, they are both happy just being together and later at the amusement park.

Though she does not respond at the time, we see her veering toward romance in his direction. Besides being attractive he is kind and good. Not asking for anything for himself, he only wants what is best for her and wishes to help find her brother. He mentions some people from the evil world and says that he is glad that she is not like that.

No spoiler intended here when I say that a happy future was not in store for them. We see Jerry deciding on the ultimate departure when he realizes his love is mortally stricken by bullets.

I give the movie an 9 out of 10. Though perhaps it is not realistic, I wished for a happier denouement of the film. However, it is well worth our time.

Gypsy Girl (1966)

[e-mail]

[8/10 · 8 July 2017]

I first saw this film in the early 70's when I was still in my teens. I remember it was called Gypsy Girl (the alternate title) and was a great and touching story. However, I just purchased the film from a Professional Source and it is missing the song Gypsy Girl, sung so beautifully by Hayley Mills. I think it set the stage for the story just wonderfully. In the 80s it aired on Life Channel and the song was there. My VHS was a little snowy, which prompted me to purchase a new DVD of it. Well, the one I just received does not have the song and is called Sky West and Crooked.

I think either title is clever, but the song was lovely. Wonder if anyone has an inkling of why it was missing.

That said, I loved the touching romance between Brydie and Roiban. I would love to have seen more of their romance and finally getting together. The vicar was very kind and wanted the best for Brydie.

The Gale Storm Show: Oh! Susanna (1956–1960)

The Gale Storm Show - Oh, Susannah

[8/10 · 14 May 2017]

I watched this show in the late 50's when I was starting school. In first grade I developed a love for all of the characters. My favorite show of all time is now My Little Margie, but Gale Storm Show is a close second. The people, the classy acts and Gale's wonderful singing voice really made it superior.

In recent years, in 2005, I discovered Gale was going to be at a movie seminar that featured 50's and 60's greats. My husband brought me and after nearly 50 years, I finally met my idol! Jane Russell, Ed Byrnes, Noel Niell and Kathy Garver were some of the other greats, but Gale was the one I wanted to meet especially. I had been so inspired by her great personality and timeless quality. What a marvelous experience! After that, I joined the Gale Storm Appreciation Society and discovered there were many people who still felt the same.

Gale called me and I spoke to her often on the phone. We became great friends and she sent me a copy of her beautiful music CD on my birthday! What a wonderful and generous lady! When I was ill and having health problems in 2007 she was so kind and sympathetic. I was invited to the 50th anniversary of Oh, Susannah, a party that was to be held at Gale's home. Sadly, she was not well, and the party was cancelled.

WE lost her in 2009, and I will never forget how wonderful it was to meet her, and also the other wonderful TV shows of the 50's and 60's. It was a great time to grow up in.

Today I watch the show often. A very generous person, the fan club vice president, made me a copy of the episodes I was missing of the programs. What a treat! So today it is like the time never passed. My big sister and I always find time to watch Oh, Susannah or My Little Margie. Even my sons and daughter enjoy Margie once in awhile.

Rock Rock Rock! (1956)

Rock Rock Rock - Some great songs!

[7/10 · 3 March 2017]

I just saw this film for the first time last night and was quite impressed by some of the songs. When it comes to 50's and 60's music, I watch for and listen for harmony.

I was about 5 when this movie came out, but my 8 year old sister and I were already listening to rock music on the radio. Later I grew up hearing Dion and the Belmonts, The Fleetwoods, etc. While still in grade school, I heard Connie Francis singing Where the Boys Are. Every song was special.

Today I enjoy collecting late 50's and early 60's music and discovered a great link on You Tube called Echo in the Halls. There is a ten CD set of great rocksongs from late 50's to early 60's.

Returning to the film, I knew it would be good for me when I heard the first number (dubbed by wonderful Connie Francis). I love I Never Had a Sweetheart. The great voice, harmony in the background, and lovely words of the song gave it special meaning.

I am not sure of the name of the wonderful singer or song, but right after that, the boyfriend sings a great song with Tuesday Weld.

Later The Moonglows two numbers were wonderful and it was great to see Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers. I collect all of their music too.

Connie Francis was beautiful as well as Tuesday Weld, so I did wonder why she was dubbed. I collect and treasure Connie's music as well.

I have given the film a 7, as the plot seems to revolve solely around the money for the prom dress and the girl's machinations to get the dress she wanted. However, it is more than made up for in the musical numbers.

The Man on the Eiffel Tower (1949)

The Man on the Eiffel Tower - Suspenseful and Entertaining!

[10/10 · 28 February 2017]

I just received a wonderful copy of this film from TCM Shop. I was expecting a problem with the color, since a copy I had received from a fellow collector had strange color - pink for the sky and green in wrong places several years ago. (However, fingers crossed, I was hoping for an improvement).

Though the film still has a disclaimer because of the ANCSCO Color problem, I was pleasantly surprised to see beautiful vivid color. Everything appears to be corrected as far as I can tell.

THe acting of Charles Laughton, Franchot Tone, and Burgess Meredith was superb. I also liked Patricia Roc, Belita, and Jean Wallace in their roles. Not only were they totally convincing, but the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and gorgeous Paris scenes were quite intriguing. Every scene is vivid and interesting. It was a pleasure to see Wilfred-Hyde White as Radek's former professor who was even afraid of him!

Though the film is quite serious, there is a little humor toward the beginning when a waiter in a cafe shows Robert Hutton to the bar, where his wife and "his little blonde" are waiting.

As the basic plot of the film has been described in previous reviews, I will just briefly comment on this great film.

This Film Noir has the viewer on the edge of their chair during the cat and mouse scenes where the taunting killer leads Inspector Maigret and his assistants on a wild chase through the streets of Paris and over the rooftops. The climatic scenes are very frightening as he climbs the Eiffel Tower, with the man he had framed (Burgess Meredith) close behind him in deadly pursuit.

A highly entertaining and timeless film accompanied by very lovely music.

Portrait of Clare (1950)

Portrait of Clare - Good film - Adding footnote -

[8/10 · 27 November 2016]

Portrait of Clare is an excellent film. I enjoyed it very much and saw it for the first time recently. In fact, I was inspired to purchase the novel. The outstanding novel by Francis Brett Young paints a more complete insight into a woman's feelings as Clare passes from very young and losing Ralph, her first husband, the love of her life. When her infant son Stephen is 10, Clare marries the family solicitor, Dudley Wilburn, an older man she admires and seems to be fond of.

From the first the marriage is a disaster, as Dudley constantly criticizes Clare's spending habits, though it is her money quite often. He even criticizes her expenditures on behalf of her son Stephen.

From the start Stephen violently dislikes his stepfather and acknowledges his feelings by extreme rudeness. At first, Clare remonstrates desperately with Stephen to be reasonable and to talk about their problems.

However, her son intensifies his feelings in a verbal barrage, culminating in a thrashing by Dudley. When Stephen runs away to the wealthy former in-laws, Clare knows she can only resolve the issue by leaving Dudley. She knows that the snobbish Lady Hingston, her former mother-in-law, would soon have Stephen in her power.

Dudley is shocked that Clare is leaving him, but she insists and goes to live with Stephen in another house she owns outright. He professes his great love for Clare, but she no longer loves or admires him. She lives more peacefully and has her piano music to comfort her.

When Stephen goes to school, Clare finds her feelings gravitating to Dudley's friend and co-worker, Robert, who is a handsome and younger man. He witnesses some of the scenes with Stephen and tries to tell Dudley that he is distressing his wife and is too extreme. But Dudley will not listen and soon their arguments lead to her leaving, when Stephen is nearly 15.

The only thing I don't like about the film is that it changes Clare's future life when she seeks a divorce from Dudley. In the book Clare can attain happiness if she follows the rules from the divorce papers Dudley has drafted. Though he still loves Clare, Dudley realizes that she is in love with Robert and he wants her to be happy.

Though WWI days and the church may have frowned more readily on divorce at the time, it could be done in a tactful manner.

I don't want to create a spoiler here, but just wanted to mention that the film was more stringent than the book! After a great personal and spiritual struggle Clare becomes free to make her own choice ultimately. She and Robert do not have to wait for Dudley's passing. Although the early 20th century held a dim view about divorces in general at that time and Clare is faced with Stephen's disapproval, she makes a decision that she hopes will lead to her happiness and Robert's as well. Although Stephen disapproves and even says his mother should return to Dudley, Clare wants desperately to follow her heart. By this time Stephen enters battle in WWI and Clare meets his commanding officer.

In the book Stephen's Commanding Office, Colonel Hart, is the man Clare comes to love and respect. Col.Hart, an older man and widower, comes to love Clare, as wildly as she loves him. At first, Clare tries to resist in order to escape scandal and disapproval of her son. By this time Stephen is 18 and marries Col. Hart's daughter. Both of them oppose their parent marrying each other.

Clare returns to Dudley to ask for advice, when he sends her a letter about the scandal about her and Col. Hart meeting too often. Clare confides in Dudley her true feelings. Surprisingly, Dudley Wilburn approves the match to make Clare happy.

Though I value the film, I could more readily identify with Clare in the book and her personal struggle and ultimate dreams for happiness.

Poison Pen (1939)

Poison Pen

[10/10 · 9 October 2016]

A gripping melodrama with an excellent cast. Though I began to have an inkling of the denouement toward the end, it was still an exciting film.

Great performances by all. Happy to see Flora Robson in another great film and Robert Newton and Ann Todd are always wonderful to see.

The story has pathos, romance, and melodrama. At the end of the film we are truly affected by the story of malice and its outcome as the Vicar attempts to calm the congregation and restore peace within the community.

As a big fan of British films of the 30's through the 50's, it was really fun to see all the familiar names at the beginning. The supporting actors and actresses are icing on the cake!

Corridor of Mirrors (1948)

Corridor of Mirrors - A suspenseful and stylish film!

[8/10 · 17 September 2016]

I had submitted a review not long ago, but after reading some of the reviews here, wanted to comment on the leading actress, Edana Romney.

I think she was a wonderful choice of actress for the film. She could register various emotions in a sophisticated manner; love, sadness, boredom, and even terror realistically. In British films, an actress can often register these feelings in a more subtle manner, as Edana had. I did think she reminded me of Margaret Lockwood and Patricia Morison. All these actresses were very adept at registering emotions in a slightly subdued manner.

That said, I had picked this film from a Nostalgia Video catalog several years ago. It sounded very intriguing with the description and was the first film with Christopher Lee! Many of the cast members (Eric Portman, Edana Romney, Barbara Mullen, etc.) I had never seen before, so it was a unique experience. In the meantime, I have watched several films with the above actors and actresses and really enjoyed them.

Corridor of Mirrors is a poignant story of a man living in the past. He meets a beautiful young woman in a nightclub who resembles Lucrezia Borgia. Edana plays the role with sophisticated flair and soon becomes interested in Paul Mangin (Eric Portman), an art and antique collector. When she visits his gorgeous home, she discovers amid the mirrors and many costumes of a bygone age, a touch of mystery about the past of the owner.

Also, there is a mysterious housekeeper. Veronica, that Paul had rescued during WWII in Italy. Was her story true of her seduction (by Paul) and then his rejection of her? He had relegated her to the basement after becoming tired of her, she said.

During the war he had become obsessed with a painting of Lucrezia Borgia, so he becomes enamored of this new young girl who resembled the girl in the painting. On one of her visits, Mifanway Conway is quite impressed by Paul's gorgeous home and the painting he reveals behind some heavy draperies.

After that, she finds herself very attracted to this man of mystery. But she discovers early on that he hates the sound of a woman's laughter. She admires gorgeous Renaissance-type costumes on life-like mannequins behind the mirrored doors in Paul's home. It is a scene that is at once eerie, and very impressive, as she dances around to the tune of an old-fashioned music box, wearing a beautiful Renaissance costume Paul had designed.

When Mifanway meets the housekeeper. Veronica, she tells a mysterious tale of Paul's seduction of her during the war and then bringing her home to his gorgeous mansion in London. At first, he had treated her like a queen, dressing her in fancy clothing. After he tired of her (having made a great show of dressing her in elegant costumes), he had demoted her to the basement of his home. She claims there had been a long procession of women, but she had always warned them in time.

The girl is frightened and saddened and flees from the house, after telling Paul she will not be one of his women. He says she must have talked to Veronica, the housekeeper, who was not normal. He had brought her there to make a home for her. (He had felt sorry for her being victimized during the war). If her story were not true, why did Paul tolerate her in his home? Had she really told the other women negative things about her employer? He claims there were no other women there. Still, Mifanway feels that Paul is too attached to hundreds of years ago, and even has a horse and carriage in London in the 1940's.

The story has lush scenery and great photography, and poignant acting, and some frightening and sad circumstances. Amid these situations, we have a murder mystery eventually.

Mifanway attends Paul's fancy dress ball that evokes the Renaissance era. After the ball, Paul has had too much to drink and passes out. A nightclub singer has been murdered while he is unconscious. Edana's character leaves prior to this and decides to marry her barrister friend. This she had mentioned to Paul just before he passed out from drinking too much. Paul is the prime suspect and does not care about the conclusion of his trial.

I will not create a spoiler, but Paul loses the will to live when the girl marries another man. He does not care about being accused of the murder of the other woman -- and his ultimate fate. He cannot recall what happened the night of the ball and is convicted of Caroline's murder. Mifanway visits Paul in jail and mentions that she will marry soon.

A few years after Paul's execution, Mifanway is receiving threatening blackmail letters about her affair with Paul. This person is the real killer and threatens her marriage. The young woman who is happily married and has three little children, is in a quandary about the outcome. Fearing exposure to her barrister husband, who has a strict moral code, Mifanway considers paying the blackmailer.

The story takes on an eerie touch when Mifanway is ordered to meet someone at Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. She is to stand before Paul's likeness. An effigy has been made of Paul standing near the replica of John Wilkes Booth.

This said, there are some interesting twists and turns at the end, culminating in a mysterious suicide.

An intriguing film with interesting characters!

Masquerade in Mexico (1945)

Masquerade in Mexico - Great film!

[7/10 · 31 August 2016]

Yesterday I finally received a great copy of this film I had liked on TV as a young child in the 60's. Though I am more into melodramas and suspense films, I thought I would try this one with the lush Mexico settings and lovely music.

I noticed some comments here and realize that everyone has his own opinion. After watching the film all the way through, I brought out my copy of Midnight with Claudette Colbert. Yes, I am a really big Claudette fan, but came to like Dorothy in her 40's films; her lovely and gentle manner, great singing voice really enhanced this film.

Yes, I like the wildly witty Midnight with Claudette, John Barrymore, and Don AMeche.

But, Dorothy singing It's Love and some others was very appealing. Too bad the film had cut Perfidia. I would love to have heard her sing this song my dad had liked during WWII. But it was not in the film.

The Rains Came (1939)

The Rains Came - One of the absolutely top films of all time!

[10/10 · 23 May 2016]

I had seen this film on TV growing up in the 60's and was as impressed with it as my mother had been. Besides a marvelous cast, superb special effects and a haunting romance, the film ably entices the viewer.

Today, many years later, I find myself really loving the movie more than I ever had. Somehow I had never really seen the depth of romance between Lady Esketh (Myrna Loy) and the handsome Major Safti (Tyrone Power) she comes to love.

The story of that love is subtly expressed in music at first when Rama Safti brings her attention to an Indian love song and translates it for her. The song is sublimely beautiful and affects them both deeply.

After that the aristocratic Edwina Esketh who is bored with her life and in a loveless marriage begins to admire the unselfish Indian doctor who works hard for his people.

In turn, the stalwart physician is attracted by Edwina, but strives to conceal his feelings, as he is continuing to pursue his work per the wishes of the Maharajah and Maharani.

When disaster strikes with heavy rains and a tidal wave following, Lady Esketh wins the doctor's approval and admiration by becoming a nurse at the hospital and working tirelessly to help the patients. In addition to flooding victims, there are also many perishing of cholera.

Before the final personal tragedy strikes, Dr.Safti expresses his love and admiration for Lady Esketh.

Many, many lives are lost in the wake of the disaster, and the Major finds himself back on course to help the Maharani (Maria Outspenskaya) who has lost her husband in the flooding.

Ironically, Lady Esketh's brutish husband (played out of character by Nigel Bruce) drowns, along with the valet he had verbally abused.

One of the final messages is the timeless quality of love given unselfishly.

Not to spoil it for those that have not seen this wonderful film, I will go no further except to say that it withstands the test of time.

The Man Between (1953)

The Man Between

[10/10 · 16 February 2016]

I first saw this unique film not long ago and was not surprised that it was superb. Given James Mason's wonderful and heart-wrenching performance and the young and naive Claire Bloom's great love for his character Ivo Kern, the film had a great recipe for success -- To all of these wonderful elements I have to mention the wonderful talents of Carol Reed's superb film-making. The viewer is willingly drawn into each and every scene of the film. The soul-stirring music inter-twined with the recreation of the principals watching opera at leisure is soon found to be more deceptive than it appears to be.

The young and lovely Susanne (Bloom) who is very naive arrives in war-torn Berlin to visit her brother Martin (Toome) who is in the Military and his lovely wife Bettina (Neff). From the very start Susanne begins to have a concern that her sister-in-law's appearance of anguish and worry may be an indication of her having a dangerous affair.

The beautiful Bettina appears to be sorrowing in secret and there is a boy of 11 or 12 who cycles back and forth from the airport to Martin and Bettina's home. In the background we hear soul-stirring music. Later the music is inter-twined with opera music, but the tension level increases as it is soon evident that war-torn Berlin is enshrouded with danger.

Susanne meets Ivo Kern who is soon revealed to have been Bettina's husband originally. He had been incorrectly reported dead; hence Martin's marriage to Bettina. Susanne begins to suspect that Ivo was Bettina's source of worry.

Ivo had been a black-market lawyer and was planning to reform in recent years. When Ivo invites Susanne to go skating, Bettina appears concerned. This could be rightfully so, for some dangerous former or newly acquired alliances could prove perilous to him and his family and friends.

Susanne and Bettina along with her brother Martin are drawn into a plot which endangers Bettina and Ivo. Susanne's naiveté may be a an endangerment to the principals, which also worries the young boy on the bicycle. In his cycles back and forth, he gathers information for which Ivo pays him. However, The boy is soon worried about his good friend Ivo which is evident by his constant cycling back and forth.

We soon find that Susanne makes an irretrievable error along the way.

The plot thickens when Susanne is mistaken for Bettina and is kidnapped. In helping to rescue Susanne, Ivo finds himself falling in love with her. Susanne returns his affection, but worries about new and frightening developments.... She had formerly mistrusted her new friend, but was now fearful for his safety.

As the story builds to a perilous denouement, every scene is important; every character's actions adds to the heart-stopping suspense. To avoid a Spoiler approaching, I will stop here.

My assessment of the story is an even 10 for cast, content, etc. Under Carol Reed's skillful direction the story is unforgettable.

Mad About Men (1954)

Mad About Men

[10/10 · 15 December 2015]

I just wanted to share my feelings about this film I had seen in the 60's growing up with my big sister. Were we ever enchanted by the mermaid story! I had and have hoped to go to Cornwall some day to see the locales. Since that time it has been fun seeing other people from this film in others. I discovered the talented Anne Crawford who was great in serious roles as well. Sadly, she passed away all too soon from Leukemia (before we had ever seen the film).

The story is delightful with the beautiful Miss Johns as the wistful mermaid wanting to meet men and switching places with her lookalike who has inherited a lodging house in Cornwall with a cave underneath.

The prim schoolteacher eventually meets a handsome man Miranda has chosen for her. Of course there is competition along the way, in the form of Anne Crawford's suitor who would turn aside from his engagement to be with Miranda. And of course the dowdy fiancée of Caroline is soon dispensed with.

A lovely and delightful story! Margaret Rutherford is outstanding as the eccentric Nurse Carey tending to her eccentric charge, Miranda. And a delightful whimsical moment - We even have Margaret's husband in a comedic scene as the Vicar who wants Nurse Carey to hang out with the sailors and smoke a pipe. This she endeavors to do with little success.

I can't even mention this wonderful film in the same breath as Splash which I might have liked better had it not been overdone sexual overtones. But I did like the story line of that film too. It's just that the actions and some dialogue were too blatant. Some of Tom Hanks's lines (and I do like Tom Hanks) are overdone.

Not to create a spoiler here - The original film to Mad About Men entitled Miranda is more racy, as we are to conclude that Miranda has had a child by a mortal man. But this is done with class and aplomb when we see the little "Merman" at the end with his mother looking wistfully toward the cave where she first met a married man.

In conclusion, to me Glynis gets the award as the most fetching and beautiful mermaid of all time - some 40 years after first seeing the film. My big sister and I wanted to grow up to look and be just like Glynis.

New info. as of May of 2016 - I recently obtained a copy of the film that is not garish. I know what the reviewer was saying and had a copy where Miranda's hair looked grayish blonde and the darker colors garish. I recall seeing the film in the 60's as a child on TV and it looked great. My new copy is just about as perfect as you can get.

Age of Consent (1969)

Age of Consent

[7/10 · 2 November 2015]

Movie Girl - I just wanted to add something I think is important - the real heart of the story. First I have to say I was still in high school when this film was made and never saw it until a friend sent me a copy recently.

I do think they went a bit far with the nude scenes, but the girl very nicely played by Helen Mirren was genuinely naive and was suddenly realizing that she had a nice figure. At the same time Cora as the young girl picked up on the fact that she was becoming attracted to this erudite artist with the great voice, of course. - James Mason was the "elderly" artist. She had genuinely fallen for him and was very hurt that he had made their association a "paying" affair. He bought her fish and did not seem personally interested in her. He also painted her in nude scenes.

Cora's aunt? is always wrongly suspecting her of a sexual rendezvous and trails her around. When she falls over a cliff, the girl has little remorse.

During the story we see Cora reject the man in the boat making sexual advances and also the guy who shows up in the cottage who is curious about the artist's paintings. (So we see that Cora is not a person who is promiscuous, nor is the artist, usually.). The painter explains to his overly curious visitor that it is not a personal affair.

All along in an invisible fashion was the title of the film, Age of Consent which meant just that. Cora was supposed to be 17 and for this very reason the painter does not make advances to her.

At the same time she does not think of this and takes it all as a rejection. The ending is quite delightful -- no spoiler intended as she accuses him of not caring about her at all and is in the water - splashing at him and he says that is not true. After the splashing scenes we can well imagine the scenes that ensue.

So as a person who usually likes older films for romance I do admire James Mason and for this reason watched the film. I think he and Helen Mirren made this story into something more than a risqué adventure. The key element at the end was love for both, though the painter was too old for his model. It was all in the perception of both.

And what of the girl he had sex with in the beginning? Well, I guess he was carried away. James Mason later married this girl, Clarissa Kaye in the 70's. I was glad to read that James escaped from his disastrous first marriage; sadly did not marry again until years later.

One thing more - Some people ventured the opinion that the term Age of Consent was outdated but I do not believe this is so. It made a nice undercurrent for the film and its ultimate denouement.

The Hasty Heart (1949)

The Hasty Heart

[9/10 · 26 September 2015]

S P O I L E R N O T I N T E N D E D - But is important when describing the ultimate meaning of this entertaining and ultimately poignant film.

I first watched this outstanding film on TV when I was very young growing up in the 60's. Though I had seen many dramatic films, I had never seen one that affected me so emotionally! It stayed with me through the years and I did recall the pathetic soldier who eventually finds peace and love in the crisis of his imminent death.

A question remained with me over the years - Did the lovely and gallant Nurse Parker really fall in love with Lachy, or was she playing up out of pity?. We can see that she is about to cry when he proposes marriage to her. "What am I to do?" she quietly asks herself as Lachy hurries to inform his new friends that he is in love with Nurse Parker and she has accepted his marriage proposal!

Just a week ago or so a friend asked me if I had the film. In copying The Hasty Heart for her I was reminded of it and recalled that I had liked it years ago. Needless to say, I was struck by the same feelings when viewing the film some 40 years later.

Here were a group of soldiers in Burma that are preparing to go home. Ronald Reagan is one of these men who keeps his morale up by being friends with the other soldiers, including a mute fellow comrade.

Nurse Parker, a lovely and empathic nurse presides over the barracks and is asked to introduce a new soldier to the men going home soon. He is being shipped there briefly, as he will die soon. She becomes aware of a medical secret concerning this man; he has two to three weeks at most to live as he got shrapnel in one kidney and his bad kidney is forced to function - for a brief time.

Nurse Parker asks that the other soldiers befriend "Lachy" and mentions that he is from Scotland. The Captain had asked her to keep Lachy's condition a secret from him, but to reveal the truth to his fellow soldiers in confidence.

At first Lachy is defensive and unfriendly. Little by little it is revealed that he had never had a friend before. His initial rudeness nearly ruins his chances of having friends at the barracks. (They all keep the secret of Lachy's medical crisis).

Ronald Reagan's character helps "the thawing out process" of this new man and the men all chip in to give him a Scottish kilt as a gift.. At first he suspects the others of making fun of him and even Nurse Parker of "wangling" a marriage proposal from him.. She is surprised but unruffled.

After a few ups and downs Lachy apologizes and wants to join the other men and to gain their friendship. He is soon included in their pictures, makes friends with all of them and comes to love Nurse Parker.

After a few days he decides to propose marriage to the nurse and she accepts. (In a moment of personal crisis she says: "What am I to do?") We see that she is deeply affected by Blachy's proposal and medical crisis.

When Lachy is finally told by the kindly Captain that he has a short time to live, he is very angry and bitter about Nurse Parker and the other men keeping his health crisis a secret. He turns away from them all and will not speak to the nurse he has grown to love in a short time. (He even spurns a friendly (but mute) black soldier who had handed him a gift. Ronald Reagan reacts angrily and says he can't talk and was trying to be his friend. Lachy is apologetic and is nice to Blossom again.

When they are packing Lachy up to fly home to Scotland Nurse Parker approaches and he bitterly cries and says she feels only pity. A meaningful responsive statement ensues here:

"Oh, Lachy, don't you know that any woman would feel pity!" And she looks at him meaningfully. Now I am a hopeless romantic admittedly, but it did occur to me that maybe Nurse Parker had another secret; her "Hasty Heart" was beating fast in gradual response to Lachy and it was not only pity she felt?.

So the poignant story ends with a sad pathos; our tragic young soldier of 24 will die soon, but he has learned about real friendship in a short time and Love. He decides to be their friend again and poses for pictures as one man laughingly "steals" his kilt.

I rated the film a 9, as Blossom is not portrayed like the other soldiers; intelligent and interactive. Instead, we see that he is mute and cannot understand English. (It is not clear, but maybe he had been from Burma or Jamaica and had never learned English). One thing is inherently certain, though. Our mute soldier understands the real meaning of friendships as well as all of the others. Orlando Martins gave afine performance as 'Blossom'...

The Other Man (1970 TV Movie)

The Other Man - 1970

[10/10 · 10 June 2015]

Movie Girl - Several years ago I was searching in vain for this wonderful film. Not long afterwards, from a reply I had written to a post here, a very lovely and generous lady sent me a copy! In return I sent her the book, Mrs. Maitland's Affair by Margaret Lynn. The film is true to the mystery novel.

This poignant story has romance and pathos. It is set in the Carmel, CA. area and features very lovely settings. The hauntingly lovely music enhances the tale as it advances.

I first saw The Other Man in 1970 when it was new on TV. Sadly, I came in on a scene where Joan Hackett (the neglected young wife of a rising attorney) meets a mystery man, Johnny Brant, who changes a flat tire for her.

In the weeks that follow Joan's character and Johnny meet for a few moments, seemingly accidentally. Soon they are in love. On the day he asks her to leave her husband, murder ensues.

From the very beginning the watcher feels an empathy with the talented and lovely Joan Hackett whose character is very realistic. As expected, she falls madly in love with Johnny, but is eventually sadly disillusioned.

Roy Thinnes as the charming and seemingly distant Johnny Brant is playing a part of his own and does not expect to fall in love with his prey. One can sympathize with his character, even though he wishes to punish someone else for unfairness that ruined his life.

The film is beautifully directed, acted, and from the beginning to the denouement it holds the watcher's interest. The poignant music and all of the talented cast enhance this wonderful story.

I am hoping one day to acquire a very good copy, but am grateful to have the one I finally obtained.

I hope the film will be aired on TV again soon. To my knowledge, it has not been broadcasted on TV since the early 90's. It was already in progress when I returned home from work, so I missed taping it.

Naughty Arlette (1949)

The Romantic Age '49 - The wrong girl described

[8/10 · 9 June 2015]

Movie Girl -

I saw this film on TV in the early 60's as a kid on a station here that aired British films on Friday nights one summer. My older sister and I always loved this film.

In the second review here it says that Petula Clark was the petulant daughter of Arnold who was spanked at the end. No, it was Mai Zetterling, her provocative school friend.

When I saw the opening scene "Littleton School for Girls" I cheered, for I knew it was the beginning of the film. (Sadly, every time the film aired in the 70's the beginning was cut off and the same happened with Mad About Men!). In the early 90's I finally obtained a complete copy.

The adolescent girl who got spanked by the butler was not Petula Clark here, but Mai Zetterling (as Arlette, a spoiled student) who had had an affair with her friend's father. She had earlier made a bet with her friends that she could seduce the new art master who was the only male teacher and was very reserved. Hugh Williams played the part very authentically.

Petula is very good too as his daughter Julie, but Mai as Arlette Tereseau takes the cake! Raymond Lovell was his usual talented self as the butler. (At the end he reaches his limit of endurance when Arlette is repeatedly rude to him).

I well remember the scene where Petula (as Julie the daughter) goes to a nightclub and dances provocatively with Arlette's boyfriend, Henri Sinclair. When Hugh (as Arnold Dixon) as her dad drags her out of there it makes him realize how sordid Arlette and her friends were. I do remember the woman in the bar who laughed and laughed when this happened! I can still hear her laughter ring out. (Julie secretly restores her family, for her father comes home again after that).

Arnold parts in great sadness from Arlette, believing he has done her wrong. She secretly snickers at him. When Julie discovers the malicious plot hatched by her so-called school friend, she turns away in disdain, but keeps the girl's insults about her boring and stuffy father to herself.

One thing that got by the censors was the spanking by the butler at the end, but the key thing was the fact that she did actually seduce Arnold! The students were on a field trip and it was pouring rain. Arlette was "lost" and sought refuge in a deserted hut. Of course she knew he (as the only man on the trip) would be the one to come to her rescue. (They had spent several hours in the hut). Margot Grahame is great as Helen, his suffering wife. They had been a happy family until Arlette entered the picture.

I will always remember how fun it was to watch with my sister. A lot of things got by me at the time, but in viewing the film again it all fits into place.

Though the film had serious elements there are moments of humor as problems are resolved.

Masterpiece Mystery: Shroud for a Nightingale 1 (1986) Season 7, Episode 1

Shroud for a Nightingale 1986

[10/10 · 24 May 2015]

This is my very favorite of all the Adam Dalgliesh series written by the super-marvelous P.D. James. The book and the mini-series are very outstanding.

Two bizarre murders take place at a nurse training school, and Commander Dalgliesh is assigned the case, along with Inspector Massingheim. Both men work very hard in striving to find the solution. For Dalgliesh, it becomes an ultimate quest for truth despite personal emotions.

The casting and realism of the parts are very well-done. The viewer is swept along with the events leading up to the final denouement of the story. The last half hour or so is quite frightening and moving as Dalgliesh alone grasps the meaning of all the final elements