Flesh and Fantasy
Director: Julien Duvivier
Actors: Edward G. Robinson, Charles Boyer, Barbara Stanwyck
PlotThe film unfolds as a triptych of eerie stories connected by overarching themes of fate, destiny, and the supernatural. In the first story, a downtrodden woman seeks excitement in her mundane life by visiting a masquerade ball. Donning a mask that transforms her demeanor, she entrances a mysterious man, but their brief encounter leaves lingering questions about her true identity and the nature of their connection. This segment delves into the contrasting allure of fantasy against the starkness of reality.
The second tale follows a devoted, successful lawyer who becomes obsessed with a fortune teller’s grim prediction concerning his fate. His life takes an unexpected turn when his obsessive nature puts him face-to-face with the foretold prophecy, leaving him to grapple with fear and skepticism. In the third story, a rather pessimistic circus performer endowed with premonitory dreams begins to foresee tragic events. His premonitions quickly become burdensome when they start involving loved ones, accentuating a conflict between his sense of helplessness and newfound responsibility. Interweaving these narratives is an insightful narrator who muses on the unpredictability of human endeavors, challenging the characters—and the audience—to ponder upon the illusory threads that bind wishes and consequences. Each vignette stands as a testament to human intrigue with the arcane and offers an exploration into the unseen forces that guide life's unpredictable journey.
Writers: Ellis St. Joseph, Oscar Wilde, László Vadnay
Release Date: 29 Oct 1943
Runtime: 94 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Flesh and Fantasy offers rich atmosphere and engaging supernatural elements, yet its inconsistent storytelling undermines its potential as a classic.
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