This is based on the sentimental novel by Alexandre Dumas fils. It is the story of a courtesan who is being kept by a rich man. She lives in the early 1800's, a harsh time, and has pretty much all she wants--except true love. When the handsome Robert Taylor (Armand) comes along, she is willing to do anything for him. He feels the same way but it is dissuaded by his uncle because her past will ruin any prospects he has. Greta Garbo is Camille, playing the part to the hilt. She is another one of those fragile beings that made up her career. Everything is orchestrated to bring about the striking conclusion. Part of the problem is that this ending has been parodied so many times and is so gut wrenching, it's almost too much to watch. All the characters are handsome or pretty and the milieu of France is well crafted. But it really seems dated now.
