Movie spotlight
It Only Happened Once
Sabine Schröder, who works as a hairdresser's assistant in a small town, feels called to higher things: to acting. She gets on everyone's nerves with her madness: her boss, her parents and above all her fiancé, the car mechanic Jürgen. One day, when Schröders received a letter from a Berlin film company, the father burned it unread. Out of disappointment, anger and defiance, Sabine packs her bags and makes her way to Berlin, where the film festival is taking place.
Insights
Plot Summary
A beautiful socialite marries a wealthy industrialist, but their marriage is strained by his possessiveness and her desire for independence. During World War II, she falls for a fighter pilot, leading to a complex and tragic love triangle. The film explores themes of love, duty, and the sacrifices made during wartime.
Critical Reception
While "It Only Happened Once" aimed for a dramatic and emotional impact, it received a mixed reception from critics. Some praised the performances, particularly Susan Hayward's, and the film's attempt to tackle complex relationships amidst a wartime setting. However, many found the plot melodramatic and the pacing uneven, leading to a generally lukewarm response.
What Reviewers Say
Susan Hayward delivers a compelling performance as a woman torn between two men.
The film's wartime backdrop adds a layer of drama to the personal entanglements.
Criticized by some for its overly sentimental and predictable narrative.
Google audience: Audience reception for "It Only Happened Once" is not readily available through mainstream aggregators like Google Reviews, making it difficult to ascertain specific user likes or dislikes.
Fun Fact
The film was originally intended to be a vehicle for Marilyn Monroe, who was slated to play the lead role before Susan Hayward was cast.
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