Letter from an Unknown Woman
Director: Max Ophüls
Actors: Joan Fontaine, Louis Jourdan, Mady Christians
PlotA successful, but emotionally detached concert pianist named Stefan Brand receives a mysterious letter from a woman on the brink of her demise. This letter, sprawling across years, reveals the poignant and tragic story of Lisa Berndle, who has loved Stefan from afar since she was a young girl. Living in the same apartment building, Lisa's infatuation begins as a naïve admiration, but soon deepens into an all-consuming passion that shapes the course of her life. Despite her family's disapproval and the passing years, Lisa’s feelings never waver, leading to a fleeting but profound encounter with Stefan that she cherishes beyond measure.
As Lisa recounts her story, Stefan is confronted with the depth of the impact he unknowingly had on her life. Her letter unfolds the events that followed their brief encounter—consequences that shaped her existence while Stefan remained oblivious to her devotion. The narrative paints a stark contrast between Lisa’s unwavering love and Stefan’s self-absorbed lifestyle, leading to moments of heartbreak and unrequited longing. The culmination of her letter forces Stefan to confront his own life choices and acknowledges a love he never recognized until it was too late.
Writers: Howard Koch, Stefan Zweig, Max Ophüls
Release Date: 16 Jul 1948
Runtime: 87 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
A stunning 4K restoration and impressive array of supplements make this Olive Films Signature Edition of Max Ophüls' lyrical and heartbreaking classic very highly recommended.
Read our review of Letter from an Unknown Woman Blu-ray Signature Edition to find out more