The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray, directed by Albert Lewin and released in 1945, is a thrilling adaptation of Oscar Wilde's riveting novel of the same name. The film, a black-and-white curiosity amidst its Technicolor peers, is a timeless exploration of vanity, loss of innocence, lifestyle excesses, and the consequential curse of immortality. Though shot in monochrome, the film famously adopts color sequences when showcasing Dorian Gray's infamous and deteriorating portrait, a brilliant filmmaking choice that adds an additional edge to the narrative.

The film features wonderful performances by its star-studded cast, including the charming yet sinister George Sanders, the enigmatic Hurd Hatfield, and the lovely Donna Reed. The ensemble does justice to the story, which is deeply philosophical and laden with intriguing complexities. However, the standout performer is undoubtedly Hatfield in the titular role. His portrayal of the handsome, privileged, yet ultimately tormented Dorian Gray is commendable and deeply moving.

The movie's narrative revolves around Dorian Gray (Hurd Hatfield), a rich, youthful, and astonishingly handsome London aristocrat who becomes the subject for a portrait painted by the talented artist Basil Hallward (Lowell Gilmore). Upon viewing his completed portrait, Dorian expresses a heartfelt but ultimately disastrous wish: to remain forever as young and as handsome as his portrait while the picture bears the burden of his aging, sins, and moral degradation.

The flamboyant Lord Henry Wotton (George Sanders), a close associate of Basil, plays a significant part in this transformation. His cunning philosophical musings about youth's fleeting nature and the importance of experiencing life's carnal pleasures have a profound effect on Dorian. His influence triggers a terrifying transformation in the once innocent Gray, setting the stage for a captivating narrative steeped in suspense and horror.

Donna Reed also impresses with her performance as Gladys, Dorian's love interest. Her portrayal of the love-stricken Gladys is heartfelt and emotional, particularly when juxtaposed with Dorian's increasingly erratic and troubling behavior.

Director Albert Lewin smartly blends elements of drama, fantasy, horror, and mystery to present a cinematic experience that continually keeps audiences on edge. He crafts a strikingly atmospheric, gothic environment that directly mirrors Dorian's deteriorating moral fiber. Despite being a product of the 1940s, the film's presentation and themes don't seem dated. Instead, it seems almost timeless, resonating with contemporaneous culture whilst evoking contemplation of universal moral dilemmas.

A particular element that sets this 1945 film apart is its intelligent use of color. The film is largely in black and white, a typical hallmark of its era. Intriguingly, the director chooses to spotlight the titular portrait in absolute color. This serves as a shocking contrast to the rest of the film and powerfully emphasizes Dorian's portrait's horrifying transformations.

The stunning cinematography by the accomplished Harry Stradling Sr. enriches the narrative, portraying London's darkened streets and opulent aristocratic homes with a gothic perspective that further fuels the movie's eerie mood.

The soundtrack by Herbert Stothart, a respectable figure in Hollywood’s music circles, effectively complements the film's grim tones, providing an auditory experience as engaging as the story unfolding on screen.

Overall, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a movie that leaves you pondering long after it concludes. It's a timeless story about the consequences of vanity-induced immortality, a cautionary tale that warns against the dangers of excessive beauty, and a lesson about the terrible price one must pay for indulging unchecked desires. The stellar performances, exceptional direction, and the masterful blend of black-and-white and color imagery make this 1940s film a must-watch for all film enthusiasts. As it sensitively navigates moral quandaries, the film exposes the viewer to the stark reality of human vices and the inevitable doom they portend. It's a cinematic masterpiece that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Oscar Wilde's spellbinding novel.