Weekend Watch 6/15-6/16

What I’m watching this weekend: The Heiress (1949)- 1 hr 56 mins

It’s longtime favorite of mine that I have chosen to re-visit this weekend. The Heiress is a classic melodrama originally based on the novel Washington Square by noted novelist Henry James. The novel was later made into the play from which the film version takes its name. When Olivia de Havilland saw the play on Broadway, she knew that there must be a film adaptation and that she had to star as the lead. She certainly was right! de Havilland shines in her performance of the “plain” and seemingly unremarkable heiress Catherine Sloper. Montgomery Clift, too, gives a noteworthy performance as Morris Townsend - the man who professes to be in love with Catherine. Catherine’s father (the great Sir Ralph Richardson), however, believes that Morris is really just pursuing Catherine’s money. "What else would a handsome gentleman want from his 'dull' and 'homely' daughter?' Catherine doesn’t know who to believe- her unloving father or Morris, the man she loves and who has shown her love for the first time.

Masterful in its simple storytelling as it deals with questions of sincerity and hidden motives, The Heiress is not a predictable drama. It’s tender at its start and captivating at its finish, although frustrating for some. That’s all I can say without spoiling too much. Now, why don’t you watch it for yourself!?

- Olivia

Score: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2ytscqbesw&t=0s&list=PLdgPWGm3l7ux7cN_AYZlB4YKyOGg3Hj4k&index=11

Availability: Youtube, Amazon video, Googleplay, DVD, and now Blu-ray!

Purchase DVD: https://www.amazon.com/Heiress-Universal-Cinema-Classics/dp/B000KGGJ1I/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1524433425&sr=1-1&keywords=the+heiress+dvd