2024/05/27

The Strange Love Of Martha Ivers - 1946 - USA

The Strange Love Of Martha Ivers - 1946 - 7/10

 
Martha, Walter, and Sam clutched a secret from childhood.
Martha and Walter married, became power brokers in their town.  Sam drifted.
Until Sam quietly returns, and blackmail, which had been an undercurrent, grows stronger.
Film bears more Melodrama than Noir, although the mystery and suspense hold up.
Van Heflin lacks the oomph for his part, Stanwyck is spot on and outstanding as usual.
Judith Anderson steals the early film as the domineering, terrifying Mrs. Ivers.
Kirk Douglas screen debut, and a rare chance to see him play a wuss.