The Bigamist
The Bigamist

Movie spotlight

The Bigamist

1956
Movie
95 min
Italian

A traveling salesman is sent to prison after being accused of bigamy, while his wife and son are forced to consider leaving him permanently.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Budd BoetticherGenres: Drama, Film Noir

Plot Summary

A traveling furniture salesman, Harmon Cobb, discovers he has unknowingly married two women and fathered a child with each. He struggles to navigate this impossible situation, which leads to legal and emotional turmoil. The film explores themes of responsibility, societal judgment, and the complexities of human relationships in mid-century America.

Critical Reception

The Bigamist was met with mixed to positive reviews upon its release, with many critics praising its unconventional subject matter and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Edmond O'Brien. While not a commercial success, it has gained a cult following over the years for its unique storyline and handling of a taboo subject.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its bold and unusual premise.

  • Edmond O'Brien delivers a compelling and sympathetic performance.

  • Ida Lupino's contribution as both director and actress is notable, though she was uncredited for directing.

Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not readily available for this older film.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

Ida Lupino, who plays Phyllis Martin, also directed a significant portion of the film but was uncredited as director due to her contract with a rival studio.

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