A Woman for All Men

A Woman for All Men delves into the genre of drama and thriller, presenting a complex narrative set against an allure of wealth, love, and deceit. Released in 1975, the film navigates through the life of its principal characters played by talented actors Judith Brown, Andrew Robinson, and Keenan Wynn.

At the heart of this film lies a cunning plot involving deceit, seduction, and a malicious plan for wealth. It revolves around the character of Judith Brown, who plays Karen, a young woman of stunning beauty and ambition. Her obsession to ascend in status and wealth brings her path crossing with that of a wealthy, old millionaire, Fred, portrayed by the acclaimed actor, Keenan Wynn. Fred is a wealthy industrialist, three times married, who, spellbound by Karen's charms, falls into the depths of her faceted façade.

In the movie, Andrew Robinson, best known for his role in Dirty Harry, portrays Steve, Fred's estranged son who holds deep bitterness toward his father for his mother's death. Steve's reappearance in the plot adds a new layer of complications to the tumultuous lives of both Fred and Karen. Unknown to Fred, Karen and Steve had a past, and lingering feelings make things more complicated, spinning the narrative towards a rollercoaster ride of emotions and tensions.

A notable aspect of this film is the airy, posh setting that fits well with the lifestyle of its characters. The cinematography is laudable for its time, being able to capture the lurid lifestyle and emotional dynamics that the narrative requires. The choice of locations, costuming, and character presentation do well to highlight the difference in age, wealth, and class between the characters, adding more depth to the storyline.

The film dares to showcase the murky underbelly of ambition, painting a vivid portrait of love and jealousy typifying affluent lives. While the plot explores the story of a woman's ambition to achieve a richer lifestyle, it also explores other themes like parental relationships, the moral implications of ambition, and the devastating effects of deceit. It lays bare the complexities that human relationships can have when complicated by wealth, past relationships, and romantic entanglements.

Director Arthur Marks keeps you on your toes, drawing you in with Karen's treacherously seductive character, Fred's blind affection, and Steve's unresolved resentment. The storytelling is deftly supported by the engaging performances of the leading cast that never fails to keep the audience invested in their stories. Keenan Wynn, as always, delivers a spectacular performance easing into the skin of a trusting millionaire, while Judith Brown plays the manipulative Karen to perfection. Andrew Robinson, not far behind, portrays his role as a confused, bitter son with commendable dedication.

The film has an undercurrent of tension that pervades it from start to end, keeping the audience constantly engaged. This tension is further amplified by the brilliantly selected music score that matches the drama unfolding onscreen. It is a nail-biting suspense, keeping you at the edge of your seat, mystified by the intricate relations, the dishonesty, and the unexpected twists in the plot.

Overall, this film is a riveting watch that may appeal to fans of drama and thriller genres. It interweaves a complex storyline, layered characters, and the chilling reality of a world driven by ambition and desire. With the incredible performances of its key players, and Arthur Mark’s engaging storytelling, A Woman for All Men solidifies its place in the pantheon of robust, dramatic movies from the mid-seventies. It's a film that leaves a mark on you long after the credits roll. Despite being a product of the '70s, the themes it explores remain relevant in today's context making it something of a timeless cinematic experience.