Intermezzo

Intermezzo is a captivating romantic drama that was released in 1939. It was a film that effectively introduced the now-iconic actress, Ingrid Bergman, to American audiences, and it remains an excellent choice for those who relish in classic films with compelling narratives, and refined performances. Leslie Howard, the familiar face from Gone With the Wind, and Edna Best, a delightful talent in her own right, join Ingrid Bergman, making a compelling triangle that adds to the film tale's charm and dramatic appeal.

Intermezzo depicts a grandly decorated world of music and concert performance indicative of the period, and the lifestyle and world of the upper class elite also convincingly come alive on screen. The narrative has a particularly strong focus on the world of String Concerto, a musical genre that might not be familiar to all. Still, the fact that it is introduced to viewers in such a compelling storyline, makes it noteworthy. Leslie Howard, who alongside acting also co-produced the film, is a well-acclaimed violin virtuoso named Holger Brandt. On his return from a tour, he finds his family life dull and sees that he's lost the spark regarding his marriage.

Enter the film's scintillating young Ingrid Bergman, portraying a character with the name of Anita Hoffman. Bergman's character, a beautiful and talented piano teacher, is teaching music to Holger's daughter Ann Marie, portrayed by Ann Todd. As Anita and Holger start spending time together, there blossoms a profound connection between the two, not just through the discourse of music, but a mutual affection that leads to an emotionally complex and clandestinely passionate relationship.

This affair creates an upheaval in Holger's marital life with his wife Margit Brandt, played by the accomplished Edna Best. The narrative adds a touch of depth as it depicts the internal conflicts, the guilt, and the consequences experienced by the characters. Holger's actions carry intense repercussions affecting not only his wife but his children, and their sense of the family.

The film beautifully portrays the characters' struggle between their passion, reality, virtues, and duties. The excellent performance of Leslie Howard successfully portrays a deeply conflicted man, torn between his passion for music, his undeniable new flame, and the responsibilities he has towards his family. Despite his repute of a heart-throb, the character of Holger humanizes him, showing the audience his profound guilt and battling conscience.

No less exceptional is the performance of Ingrid Bergman. Bergman, bringing an authentic European charm to her character, successfully becomes the enchanting and ultimately conflicted Anita Hoffman. The sincerity in her performance is bolstered by the fact that the role was one she had already played in the film's 1936 Swedish version. It is here in this Hollywood version though that she fully explores the subtleties of the character, a woman torn between her love and the need to be responsible for someone else's discord.

Equally commendable is Edna Best in the role of Margit, a woman betrayed, yet dignified, struggling to keep together her family while her world seems to crumble. Best brings a sense of poise and grace to her character that truly stands out. Best's Margit strongly complements her co-stars' performances, adding depth to the drama.

Intermezzo's director, Gregory Ratoff, allows viewers with a cinematic experience combining music, romance, and intense emotional drama. Accompanied by an excellent musical score which adds further resonance to the story, Ratoff takes audiences on an emotionally engaging journey where love, guilt, and duty intertwine. The beautiful use of music throughout the film, primarily the divine violin pieces, forms the entire narrative's backbone. To this day, Intermezzo remains a powerful display of the film's stars' exceptional talent and a delightful treat for the lovers of classical cinema.

Not to miss, the film's breathtaking cinematography which pulls you into its world with engaging warmth and authenticity. Yet, throughout the distinct telling of love and loss, hope and despair, its cinematic elements add further color and tone to the narrative, putting it in the high leagues of prime black and white cinema of the time.

In essence, the 1939 film, Intermezzo, morphs the grandeur of music and the complexity of romantic relationships into a masterful cinematic experience. With magnificent performances and an unforgettable narrative, this film continues to mesmerize and intrigue audiences decades after its release.