Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Reunion in France


A stylish thriller, Reunion in France takes us to the heart of Occupied Paris during World War II. Joan Crawford plays Michele de la Becque, a former member of France's elite who has lost her home and fortune to the Nazis. When she returns to Paris from the south of France, she finds a different world. Her fiance before the war, Robert Cortot, is suddenly a collaborator, and she has to find a menial job.

When a downed RAF flyer, Pat Talbot (John Wayne) enlists her help to escape to England, Michele's love of her country compels her to assist him. Surprises await her, however, when she comes face to face with the Gestapo - and her own heart.

Crawford's performance is outstanding. She flawlessly goes from spoiled socialite to ardent patriot. Philip Dorn, who plays Cortot, is masterful - you love to hate him. Although John Wayne's role isn't a large one, the chemistry between him and Crawford is wonderful.

Produced by Joseph Mankiewicz, this is a tense, suspenseful, and very well-done war drama.

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