16 Comments

  1. I saw this several months ago and really enjoyed it, though I have not read the book yet, but it is on my list. It was refreshing (especially, as you said, how the hero never tries to make her decisions for her) and the costumes were an absolute delight (and one never complains about getting to see another Basil Rathbone villain role…even if he does wear an extraordinary wig).

    • If you liked the movie, you’ll love the book. Dona is so hilarious when she meets with Goldolphin, that scene in the prison is amazing, & the opening is lovely. And that’s just the start. I think it’s one of her best.

  2. I’ve read the book but I haven’t seen (in fact wasn’t actually aware of!) the movie. I can imagine it translating well to the screen. Your comment about this being inspired by the author’s own life – I’ve always been really interested in Daphne du Maurier the author, I think the success of her books often overcomes her personal achievements.
    PS – the costumes in this look EPIC!

    • She is fascinating, isn’t she? I’ve only read one of her biographies, and I’d like to read a more authoritative one, get a better sense of how she did accomplish so much (especially under that accomplished father’s shadow). I’ve always been impressed by the range of her writing–The House on the strand, for example, has never been given enough credit. You’ll be pleased to see in FC how much of the book shows up–and yes, the costumes!! I don’t think Joan Fontaine has ever looked prettier.

  3. Ooh – Basil Rathbone as the nemesis. You know you’re in for a good time when.

    I’m always afraid to watch the film version of a beloved novel. I find I’m always holding my breath, hoping filmmakers don’t botch it. But it sounds like this film has captured the essence of the book. (Which I’ve just added to my To Read List.)

    I love a good yarn and am wondering how this one slipped underneath my radar. Thanks for this!

  4. Joan Fontaine is the heroine? I’m in. I adore her, and Daphne du Maurier. This film sounds really interesting — I’ll have to check it out next time it pops up on my radar.

  5. I’m wondering how I’ve missed this one! Really, I’ve never heard of it until now! But it does sound delightful – perfect for a Saturday afternoon and a bucket of popcorn!
    Thanks for the kind comment!
    Kisses!
    Le

    • It’s true. She was quite good in Rebecca. It’s fun to see her as a much more confident woman in this one. Most of Du Maurier’s characters are more confident, actually–I liked Maureen O’Hara in Jamaica Inn too. Though it was a flawed film, she caught the spirit. Definitely check this one out if you’re a Du Maurier fan!

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