Review of The Heiress (1949) by Grant S — 09 Oct 2017

New York, 1840s. Dr. Austin Sloper, a widower, is a wealthy man. He has one child - Catherine, who is in her 20s. Socially withdrawn and awkward, her father and her aunt, Lavinia, encourage her to be more outgoing and sociable but she seems content to spend her time embroidering. Then, at a party she meets young, handsome and almost penniless Morris Townsend. They get along very well and soon he is calling on her. In a very short space of time they are engaged to be married. Dr. Sloper believes Townsend is just after Catherine's sizable inheritance and refuses to bless the marriage. Furthermore, he threatens to cut Catherine out of his will. This puts a strain on not only the father-daughter relationship but also the Catherine-Townsend relationship.

Great drama, directed by William Wyler. Highly engaging, with some great character depth and development and interesting plot. Quite intriguing too, as you wonder whether Townsend is just in it for the money. Some interesting themes and a good exploration of relationships.

Some good twists along the way, especially towards the end, making for an enthralling movie. Clever, punchy, profound ending.

Superb performances by Olivia De Havilland as Catherine, Montgomery Clift as Townsend and Ralph Richardson as Dr. Sloper. De Havilland won the 1950 Best Actress Oscar and Richardson was nominated for Best Supporting Actor. Clift was not nominated but gives a great reminder of his considerable talent.