The Cradle Will Fall
Kathy DeMaio checks into the hospital and thinks she sees a body being loaded into the trunk of a car. When the body turns up later and the murderer, Dr. Highley, thinks that DeMaio can identify him, her life is put in jeopardy. Originally made for television and adapted from a novel by Mary Higgins Clark, the interesting twist to this thriller is that several cast members of the daytime soap opera "Guiding Light" play those same roles here.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during World War II, the film follows a determined wife who attempts to find her missing husband, a soldier who has gone AWOL. Her search leads her through the harsh realities of war-torn landscapes and introduces her to a variety of characters, some helpful and some hindering her quest. Throughout her journey, she grapples with her own strength and resilience in the face of immense adversity.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, 'The Cradle Will Fall' received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often highlighting Sarah Miles's powerful performance. While some found the narrative pacing slow, others praised its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of war and the indomitable spirit of its protagonist.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its strong lead performance and emotional depth.
- Critiques noted its deliberate pacing, which some found arduous.
- Appreciated for its realistic depiction of a woman's strength during wartime.
Google audience: Audience reviews frequently commend the film's powerful emotional impact and Sarah Miles's compelling performance. Some viewers found the storyline to be quite affecting, while others occasionally mentioned wishing for a more dynamic plot progression.
Fun Fact
The film was a significant departure for director Barbara Loden, known for her earlier, more intimate dramas, as she tackled a larger-scale war theme.
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