
Movie spotlight
Fifteen Wives
Shortly after his arrival from South America to New York, Steven Humbolt is found dead in his apartment at the Savoia Hotel. Inspector Decker Dawes investigates the case and although the cause of death is described as apoplexy, Dawes is convinced it as murder, especially after he learns that Humbolt had been married fifteen times.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the harsh landscape of the Old West, a Mexican woman seeks refuge and a new life. She finds herself entangled with a wealthy but morally ambiguous rancher who maintains a peculiar and controlling relationship with the fifteen women who live on his isolated property. As secrets and tensions simmer, her presence disrupts the fragile order, leading to dramatic confrontations and a fight for survival against both nature and human cruelty.
Critical Reception
Fifteen Wives, also known as 'The Fugitive', was a modest production that garnered some attention for its atmospheric direction and performances, particularly from Walter Huston. However, it is often considered a lesser-known work by Edgar G. Ulmer, overshadowed by his more iconic films. While it explored themes of isolation and exploitation, its narrative and pacing were sometimes criticized.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its brooding atmosphere and Ulmer's distinctive visual style.
Walter Huston's performance is highlighted as a compelling portrayal of a domineering figure.
Some critics found the plot predictable and the handling of its sensitive themes somewhat dated.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific film from 1934 is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
Edgar G. Ulmer, known for his low-budget but visually striking films like 'Detour' and 'The Black Cat', directed 'Fifteen Wives' during a period when he was often working on B-movies, yet he managed to imbue it with his characteristic stylistic flair.
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