Just terrible- truly awful I'm probably going to pile up another heap of unhelpful votes by criticizing this moldy oldie, but this was one of the worst movies I've ever seen. I love older movies, but just just because something is in black-and-white doesn't mean it's a classic. While Novak and Harvey- like most old time movie stars- have a certain sophistication and maturity that is lacking in today's actors, this movie fails because nothing happens to their very uninteresting characters. A medical student falls in love with a lower-class whore, who betrays him and then comes crawling back several times. It was just excruciatingly boring, and the mental anguish was so intense that I had to turn it off even before its denouement, if there even was one.
I Love This Version! I just finished watching this and loved it! I got it because I really like Laurence Harvey and I remember how much I enjoyed the book when I read it years ago. I felt this version was perfect (missing only more emphasis on Philip's early years-if you've read the book) and the most perfect aspect was Kim Novak. I have never been a Kim Novak fan, infact I've always kind of disliked her but she IS Mildred. I felt she was totally believable in the role without going over-the-top which would be easy to do. I even forgot she was Kim Novak-she looks so different from her other more popular roles. Great movie-well worth it!
Searing Portrait of Obsession Yes, this novel was adapted into an earlier Bette Davis version. Yes, that version has a loyal following. But this film deserves a fair shake. On its own terms, it is a realistic, gritty portrait of obsession. Laurence Harvey is always believable and Kim Novak is absolutely frightening in her role. She IS Mildred to the core. Kim's usual vulnerability does shine through as always, but that only deepens the poignancy of this self-destructive character who doesn't understand how to love or be loved. She is authentic in her manners and accent for the period, making one wish that for once this lovely and talented actress would get the credit she deserves. "Of Human Bondage" deserves a dvd release.
dvd please I think a dvd version of this film should be made
Excellence I may be only 22 and this movie may have been made before my mother was even born, but still. This was by far, the greatest old movie I have ever seen (besides "It's a wonderful life" lol)
My personal favorite "present day" movies may be Natural Born Killers and those types of movies, but this one kinda hit home.
If you have ever had a partner who has broke yer heart, you may be able to relate to this movie and enjoy it quite a bit.
Anything Goes Trivia
Megaton Man
Trevor
