The Woman in Question

Watch The Woman in Question

"The suspense-tense surprise of the year!"
  • Approved
  • 1950
  • 1 hr 28 min
  • 6.8  (1,056)

The Woman in Question is a classic British crime thriller from 1950, starring Jean Kent, Dirk Bogarde, and John McCallum. Directed by Anthony Asquith, this film is a brilliant example of the noir genre, with its intriguing plot, complex characters, and tense atmosphere. The story revolves around a murder trial, where a wealthy businessman, Lewis Carson (John McCallum), is accused of killing his mistress. Despite having a strong case against him, Carson maintains his innocence, and his defense counsel (Dirk Bogarde) tries to unravel the mystery behind the murder. Meanwhile, the victim's sister, Vivienne Bruce (Jean Kent), comes forward and claims to have evidence that could prove Carson's guilt. But as the trial progresses, it becomes clear that there is more to the case than meets the eye.

The Woman in Question is a masterfully crafted film, with a tight script and excellent performances from the cast. John McCallum delivers a convincing portrayal of a man caught in a web of lies and deceit, while Dirk Bogarde shines as the clever lawyer who slowly uncovers the truth. Jean Kent, in particular, deserves special mention for her impressive performance as the victim's sister. She brings a sense of gravitas to the film, and her character is both sympathetic and intriguing.

The film's cinematography is also worth noting, with its stylish use of shadows and dark lighting adding to the eerie ambiance of the story. The courtroom scenes are especially well done, with tight close-ups and dramatic pauses used to great effect. Overall, the film is a testament to the talent of the filmmakers and actors involved, and remains a classic of its genre to this day.

One of the most interesting aspects of The Woman in Question is the way it portrays the character of Carson. At first glance, he seems like a typical philandering millionaire, with a string of mistresses and a disregard for the law. However, as the film progresses, we start to see a more sympathetic side to him. He genuinely seems to care for his wife and children, and is devastated by the accusations leveled against him. This ambiguity adds to the tension of the film, as we are never quite sure whether he is guilty or innocent.

Another notable feature of the film is its social commentary. The story takes place in post-war London, and there are several references to the social and economic upheaval of the time. We see a stark contrast between the wealthy, privileged world of Carson and the struggling working-class families who are affected by the trial. This adds depth to the film, and makes it more than just a simple crime drama.

Overall, The Woman in Question is a must-see film for fans of classic noir. It is a well-crafted, intriguing story with great performances from the cast, stylish cinematography, and a tantalizing mystery at its core. Whether you are a fan of courtroom dramas, crime thrillers, or just good old-fashioned cinema, this film is definitely worth checking out.

The Woman in Question
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Description
  • Release Date
    1950
  • MPAA Rating
    Approved
  • Runtime
    1 hr 28 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.8  (1,056)