Review of All That Heaven Allows (1955) by David B — 30 Jun 2012

An exceptional visual experience with rich Technicolor detailing which is truly stunning. Douglas Sirk specialised in these gentle melodramas in the 1950s which although seeming dated now make pointed jabs at family realations, male dominated society and snobbish middle class attitudes about sexuality and the woman's place being in the home.

This one in particular has a lot to say about sacrificing personal happiness to keep children and family happy. A widow ( Jane Wyman) is pursued by a couple of suitors who would offer her stability and more of what her husband provided her.

She falls in love with the gardener (Rock Hudson) who is quite the opposite of her dead husband. Her children and friends protest and she dumps him. After her children leave for their own romance and life experience she then reflects on her actions and with the support of her family doctor returns to sort things out before events take a dramatic turn.

As usual Sirk uses classical themes for his film and there is Brahms and Rachmaninov and piano themes. Check out Sirk's other films. These are American masterpieces before the blight of CGI and bland direction and art direction.