A Letter to Three Wives
A Letter to Three Wives

Movie spotlight

A Letter to Three Wives

1949
Movie
103 min
English

A letter is addressed to three wives from their 'best friend', announcing that she's running away with one of their husbands – but she doesn't specify which one.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Google Users90%
Director: Joseph L. MankiewiczGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In a small town, three married women receive a letter from their mutual friend, Addie Ross, claiming she has left town with one of their husbands. As each woman anxiously awaits confirmation of this scandalous news, they reflect on their own marriages and the events leading up to this potential crisis. The film unfolds through their individual flashbacks, revealing their secrets, insecurities, and the complex dynamics of their relationships.

Critical Reception

A Letter to Three Wives was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning widespread praise for its witty screenplay, sharp direction, and strong performances. It was lauded for its sophisticated portrayal of marriage and its clever narrative structure, which was innovative for its time. The film is considered a classic of the era, celebrated for its blend of humor and pathos.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sophisticated and witty screenplay that dissects marital relationships.

  • Lauded for Joseph L. Mankiewicz's deft direction and the strong ensemble cast.

  • Celebrated for its innovative flashback narrative structure and emotional depth.

Google audience: Audiences have consistently appreciated 'A Letter to Three Wives' for its clever exploration of marriage, its engaging storytelling, and its enduring humor. Reviewers often highlight the film's ability to remain relevant and relatable across generations.

Awards & Accolades

Won Academy Awards for Best Director (Joseph L. Mankiewicz) and Best Screenplay (Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Vera Caspary). Nominated for Best Picture.

Fun Fact

The character of Addie Ross, the unseen catalyst for much of the film's drama, is never actually shown on screen, adding to the mystery and intrigue of the narrative.

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