The House in the Square
The House in the Square

Movie spotlight

The House in the Square

1951
Movie
90 min
English

Atomic scientist Peter Standish travels back in time to 1784, an era he has read about in his forefather's diaries. He falls in love with his forefather's cousin, Helen, but his contemporaries of 1784 are perplexed by his strange talk and the odd knowledge he possesses. Remake of Berkeley Square (1933).

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Elia KazanGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A young woman finds herself at the center of a scandalous affair in a small, tightly-knit community. As secrets unravel, her relationships with her husband and a charismatic drifter become increasingly complicated, leading to profound personal and societal consequences. The film explores themes of desire, social judgment, and the devastating impact of hidden truths.

Critical Reception

The film was met with mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its performances and thematic depth, while others found its pacing and melodramatic elements to be less successful. Over time, it has gained a reputation as a significant, albeit somber, work from its acclaimed director.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its powerful performances, particularly from its lead actors.

  • Criticized for its sometimes slow pacing and overly dramatic narrative.

  • Noted for its exploration of complex psychological and social issues.

Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was originally conceived as a vehicle for another actress, but was eventually cast with Marilyn Monroe in a rare dramatic role.

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