This is one of those films that this Golden-Age-of-Hollywood buff has only now gotten around to seeing. Frustratingly, in spite of the glossy mega-talent in front of and behind the camera, it's a tough one to rate. It was a gorgeous color print, with all the stops pulled out on lead casting, production design, and even "All About Eve" veteran Joe Mankiewicz as director and screenwriter....all the ingredients of a top-tier '50's classic, but it doesn't quite come off. The other reviewers here have more than adequately described the plot, so I'll vote with those who find it gorgeously filmed but overly talky, especially in the first half---for all its gloss, it sadly lacks "Eve"s sparkling wit and engaging supporting characters. I thought leads Humphrey Bogart and Ava Gardner play well off each other, though, in spite of the dialogue they're given. The concluding scenes are pure soap, but by then you'll want to know what happens to these impeccably attired, Technicolor screen folk. Edmond O'Brien snagged the supporting actor Oscar win as the agent, (though IMO the Academy should have nominated Jack Carson that year instead, for his outstanding performance in a similar role in "A Star Is Born.") But, if you love Old Hollywood, you might give this one watch, especially if you're fans of Bogie and Gardner.
Review of The Barefoot Contessa
