There is classic wit on display here, and a charming cynicism. Some of the characters are world-weary in a way that I don't usually associate with films from the early 1940's. A unique character portrait, indeed. Our hero is hardly lovable. He emanates a strange vulnerability and stubborness that is too common among male chauvinists. The reason I can't recommend this movie more highly is because of the tender portrait of "the devil". He is presented, in nicely furnished "hell" as a tender counselor - not a characterization I care to buy into. Nonetheless, Criterion's restored print of the film is lovely to look at, and there are some excellent extra features on the disc - particularly the portrait of screenwriter Samsom Raphaelson - that are worth the time.
Written 10/18/07
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