Joy House
Director: René Clément
Actors: Alain Delon, Jane Fonda, Lola Albright
PlotA charming but enigmatic Frenchman, Marc, finds himself on the run in the south of France. Escaping from gangsters in Paris, he flees with a sense of urgency and deceit, seeking refuge at a mysterious villa owned by two American women. Barbara, a wealthy widow, and her niece Melinda, are entangled in a complex relationship filled with tension and undercurrents of jealousy. Marc's arrival adds further intrigue to the household, and both women become captivated by his presence, each for their own reasons. The villa sits isolated on jagged cliffs overlooking the sea, creating an atmosphere of claustrophobic beauty. Marc senses a potential opportunity to manipulate the situation to his advantage, all while maintaining his captivating and sly demeanor.
As Marc ingratiates himself with Barbara and Melinda, hidden motives begin to unravel. Barbara is driven by her desire to possess Marc completely, enveloped in a world where wealth easily eclipses morality. Melinda, however, is drawn to Marc’s apparent vulnerability and allure, creating a rivalry between the two women. The tension between them grows as Marc plays a delicate game, balancing the desires he ignites while maintaining his own secrecy. Suspicion and passion simmer under the surface as Marc carefully maneuvers through the tangled relationships, aware that any misstep could spell his downfall. In this atmospheric setting, with its shadows and mysterious charm, the power dynamics fluctuate unpredictably as Marc navigates an intricate path between safety and danger.
Writers: René Clément, Pascal Jardin, Charles Williams
Release Date: 01 Nov 1964
Runtime: 97 min
Rating: TV-MA
Country: France
Language: French, English
Home Video Reviews
Despite a flawed master, 'Joy House' intrigues with stylish noir elements; features include a mismatching French dub, insightful commentary, and an extended trailer.
Read our review of Joy House Blu-ray Les F�lins to find out more