Bedevilled

"Bedevilled" is a spellbinding film from the year 1955, starring the incomparable Anne Baxter, dashing Steve Forrest, and the nuanced Simone Renant. This thriller-come-crime drama is set amid the picturesque landscapes of Paris and the French Rivieria, interlaced with chilling undertones of suspense and mystery.

The film opens in a fascinating display of Anne Baxter's versatility, as she brings to life the character of Monica Johnson – an ordinary, yet striking American woman residing in Paris. Monica is shown running a slightly mysterious, but nonetheless successful, business and leading what most would perceive as an idyllic existence. Her comfortable life undergoes a sudden shift when her cousin, Greg (played by Steve Forrest), an American clergyman visiting France for a conference, knocks on her door.

The familial connection between Monica and Greg is depicted through subtle hints throughout the film, speaking volumes of their shared childhood and unspoken connection. Steve Forrest mirrors Anne Baxter perfectly - his calm and reserved Protestant demeanor provides an engaging contrast to Monica's audacious allure. The film glides between their evolving relations, gradually revealing Monica’s concealed life underneath her blasé exterior.

Simone Renant, impeccably embodying the character of the capable linguist and adept typist Lisa, brings a layer of complexity and intrigue to the film. The triangle involving Monica, Greg, and Lisa unfolds in a serpentine fashion, keeping the viewers guessing until the very end.

Masterfully directed by Mitchell Leisen, "Bedevilled" intertwines breathtaking locations with stimulating relationships. As the narrative progresses, the characters faced with dilemmas of morality come alive in the backdrop of stunning Parisian cafes and cobblestone streets, intricate Paris interiors, evocative shadow play, and glossy scenes of the Cote d'Azur. A significant contribution to the mise-en-scene of the film is the exquisite costume design. The stylish Parisian wardrobe worn by the characters speaks volumes of their personalities and circumstances, and aids in the overall visual story-telling.

Crisply photographed by John Wilcox, the film dazzles with its evocative imagery, painting each frame with meticulous attention to detail. Each scene and angle is chosen with precision, accentuating the characters and enriching the narrative landscape of the story.

"Bedevilled" is backed by a powerful screenplay, penned by Jo Eisinger and based on a story by Alec Coppel. Eisinger deftly weaves a web of suspense and mystery around the seemingly ordinary characters, gradually bringing out their complexities and contradictions. His play with elements of suspense, combined with the phenomenal performances of the cast, ensures that the audience remains glued to their seats, waiting for the secrets to unravel.

The suspenseful aspect of the film is intensified by a terrific musical score by William Alwyn. Accompanying the narrative with a gripping orchestration, it amplifies the tension and uncertainty in critical scenes, and in the process, enhances the overall drama and mystery.

The performances in the movie are varied and robust. Baxter shines in an array of emotional spectrums, from light humor and allure to deep-seated fear and complexities. She astounds the viewers with her charisma and spontaneity. Steve Forrest, brilliantly portrays the depth and intricacies of his character, and Simone Renant provides the perfect complement with her graceful performance and unmatched charm.

"Bedevilled" is more than just a crime drama or psychological thriller. It delves deep into the human psyche, unraveling the complexities of human nature in the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and invigorating music. It's a thrilling journey that takes the viewers down the winding paths of suspense, mystery, morality and intrigue.

Through captivating performances, an engaging plot, and an immersive setting, "Bedevilled" remains a cinematic treasure. It is a classic testimony to the enduring charm of mid-century European cinema, featuring all the elements of a timeless film that continues to captivate viewers, despite its release over half a century ago.