Indiscreet (1958)

Directed by Stanley Donen. Starring Ingrid Bergman, Cary Grant, Phyllis Calvert, Cecil Parker, David Kossoff, Megs Jenkins.

Theater actress Bergman had long ago given up on love, but then she embarks upon a romance with suave married man Grant (separated and unable to get a divorce). Second screen pairing of Grant with Bergman isn’t in Notorious’ class, but fine fare all the same—a grower that advances on a faintly poignant, longing note before drifting into light, sophisticated comedy as secrets are revealed and complications arise. Beguiling performances from the attractive middle-aged stars, a shared passion that’s pursued without the recklessness of foolish youth. Best scene is when the Bergman and Grant share a silent, smoldering elevator ride that lasts about thirty uninterrupted seconds; funniest line belongs to Bergman: “How dare he make love to me and not be a married man?” Director Donen appeased the anxious censors by utilizing split-screens so that the leads wouldn’t be seen in the same bed together. Scripted by Norman Krasna from his stage play (Kind Sir).

72/100