The Upturned Glass

The Upturned Glass is a 1947 British film noir directed by Lawrence Huntington. The film stars James Mason, Rosamund John, and Pamela Mason. It is a psychological thriller that delves into themes of obsession, revenge, and moral ambiguity.

Plot

The story follows Michael Joyce, a prominent neurosurgeon, who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and murder. After performing a successful surgery on a young girl, Michael becomes romantically involved with her mother, Emma Wright. However, Emma is married, and their affair leads to tragic consequences.

When Emma dies under mysterious circumstances, Michael suspects foul play and sets out to uncover the truth. His investigation leads him to Emma's sister-in-law, Kate Howard, who he believes is responsible for Emma's death. Consumed by his desire for revenge, Michael's actions spiral out of control, culminating in a dramatic and morally complex conclusion.

Cast

• James Mason as Michael Joyce
• Rosamund John as Emma Wright
• Pamela Mason as Kate Howard
• Ann Stephens as Ann Wright
• Brefni O'Rorke as Dr. Farrell
• Morland Graham as Mr. Watson

Production

The film was produced by Sydney Box and released by Gainsborough Pictures. The screenplay was written by Pamela Mason and John Monaghan, based on a story by Pamela Mason. The cinematography was handled by C.M. Pennington-Richards, and the music was composed by Hans May.

Reception

Upon its release, The Upturned Glass received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film's atmospheric tension and James Mason's performance, while others criticized its convoluted plot and melodramatic elements. Despite this, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered a notable example of British film noir.

Legacy

The Upturned Glass is often cited as an important work in the filmography of James Mason, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The film's exploration of psychological themes and moral dilemmas has also been noted for its influence on later works in the genre.

See also

• Film noir
• British cinema
• James Mason filmography

External links

The Upturned Glass at IMDb

The Upturned Glass at AllMovie