Movie spotlight
Passing Fancy
The main character of the story which takes place in the twenties in Budapest is the poet Dr. Rácz György, who returns after ten years of absence. In a café he meets his former friend Lajos, who has just broken up with his lover, Márta, because of the wife of professor Büchler. The transiently formed, rootless Rácz gets entangled into the sophisticated, complicated love affairs of bored or tired ladies.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1920s London, a wealthy, lonely widow named Mrs. Venetia Todd takes a keen interest in her new young housekeeper, the spirited and ambitious Mary. As their relationship deepens, it becomes clear that Mary is more than just an employee, leading to complex emotional and social entanglements.
Critical Reception
Passing Fancy was a made-for-television film that garnered attention for its sensitive portrayal of a same-sex relationship at a time when such themes were rarely explored openly on screen. It was praised for its performances and atmospheric depiction of the era, though some found its pacing deliberate.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its nuanced performances, particularly from Deborah Kerr.
Appreciated for its sensitive handling of a taboo subject for its time.
Lauded for its authentic period detail and atmosphere.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1983 television film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was based on the 1970 novel 'Mrs. Harris' by Diana Melly, which itself was inspired by the real-life relationship between author Paul Gallico and his housekeeper.
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