Wednesdays Film Review - Gilda 1946

Gilda 1946

 

Main Cast:

Gilda: Rita Hayworth

Johnny Farrel/Narrator: Glenn Ford 

Ballin Mundson: George Macready

Singing voice of Gilda: Anita Ellis

 

In the beginning of the film we meet the main character Johnny Farrel. Mr. Farrell is newly arrived in Argentina, where he is gambling with American sailors. Using a pair of false dice he winds the game and takes the money. When out in the streets he is attacked by a man, who wishes to rob him and is armed. Farrel is saved by a mysterious gentleman with a peculiar cane (There's a blade hidden in the cane, which shoots out of the end by the press of a button). The gentleman introduces himself as Ballin Mundson and offers Farrel a cigarette. He gives Farrel an access-card to an illigal casino, but advises him not to "bring his own dice", as Mundson is aware that they are false. However, when he arrives at casino, Farrel cheats again, this time in a cardgame. Two men take him to see the boss. In the office, Mundson reveals himself as the owner of the casino. The two become friends as Johnny Farrels is given the job of managing the casino. One day Mundson comes home from a shorter trip and calls Farrel to his house. Mundson introduces Farrel to his new wife Gilda, noticing the odd reaktion from Gilda and Farrel when they meet. Gilda and Johnny Farrel have in fact already meet. But how will they succeed in keeping this from Ballin Mundson, and how far will they go in their hate and contempt for each other? What will Farrel do, when he is asked by his boss to control his young, beautyful, outrageous and provoking femme-fatale of a wife? What is the past that unites them?    

"Gilda" is a film-noir directed by Charles Vidor. It has achived legend status within this genre, which absolutely understandable. My sincere admiration to Mr. Vidor. 

First of all I must comment upon the ligthing of this film and the beautyful photography by Rudolph Mate. Yes, I am aware that you do not watch films for the ligthing, but the way in which this is done is simply amazing.

Even though the role isn't giving her very much to play with, the acting by Rita Hayworth is not to be missed. She lights up the film and brings such depht and charisma. Also her wonderful dancing is completely worth watching the film for. 

For those of you whose mother tongue is not English - have no fear. The dialog is very clear - provided of course that you have a proper sound system. 

All in all, "Gilda" is a wonderful, charismatic film and Miss. Hayworth shines as a goddess upon the screen!