Dimitri44
This motion picture can now be seen at a well known website, and I just viewed it for the first time yesterday evening, and ... Now, firstly, how can anyone say that Jimmy Stewart was miscast? I thought that both Jimmy Stewart and Simone Simon were perfect. By the way, your website notes the circumstances as to how her father died, and after leaving behind such a wonderful daughter, he did not die in vain. Next, as Diane shows an evidently avid interest in the kitchen, some might now say that might be somewhat out of date - you know, not exactly a power situation. Well, there are still a number of good guys out there, and if they ever had a chance to meet someone like Diane, no matter what she asked, they wouldn't even dream of saying no. How's that for a power situation?Some reviewers also misunderstand who Diane was while she was under her sister's rule. For example, when Sig Rumann merely tried to offer a kiss, look what happened. Continuing, I also note that in real life, Simone Simon never married, and I wouldn't be surprised if this reflects her role in this movie - an angel and a saint. Finally, this motion picture didn't receive a hint of the recognition that it so richly deserved when it came out, and I wonder why?
jotix100
Chico, a sewer worker in Paris rescues Diane, a prostitute, from the police. He not only offers his protection, but also his unending love. Diane, who up to that point had been abused by many people, suddenly realizes the love she receives from Chico lifts her from a dreary existence and helps her find her own voice. Alas, war intervenes at the time the couple decides to get married. Chico, an avowed atheist, invents his own wedding vows as he and Diane exchange chains to wear around their necks instead of the customary ring. Both make a promise to chant their names and pretend they are in heaven at 11am each day. The ritual keeps them hoping for an eventual happy life together in peaceful times. This 1937 release directed by Henry King, is seldom seen these days. The basic reason for watching it again is the sweet presence of Simone Simon and James Stewart. These two actors contributed to make the film much better than it should have been if played by others. Ms. Simon, one of the most beautiful faces in the French cinema, had a wonderful screen presence that works well opposite to the young and disarming James Stewart, at one of the best points of his budding career.Others in the cast included Jean Hersholt, who appears as the priest that tries to convert Chico. This is the same actor whose name is synonymous with worthwhile causes within the film industry and who died much to young to continue his humanitarian work. Also, Gregory Ratoff, Gale Sondergaard, Sig Ruman and J. Edward Bromberg and the rest do great work in the film.The copy shown on cable was not exactly the best, but as in other memorable films, what matters is the story and the great performances that Henry King got from everyone.
sdobbs-1
This movie has stuck with me since seeing it late at night on television 26 years ago. I became a Simon Simone fan and was already a Jimmy Stewart fan. An up lifting story showing that even the seemingly lowest people on the social scale can be courageous, serve a higher purpose, overcome hardships and past mistakes, and have a happy life shared with a true love. I have to admit to being a sucker for these types of movies though. This movie is similar to Cannery Row (Nick Nolte and Debra Winger) and The World Of Suzie Wong (William Holden and Nancy Kwan). I have never been able to find this movie showing on television since or on DVD or VHA. Wish I could find this one on DVD or VHS since I would love to share watching it with my wife.
Plummerwoman
I thought it was a very sweet movie. It made me believe in true romance, that there is such a thing as making love without...you know what I mean. It was uplifting because bravery and heaven were big in this movie. "Chico, Diane, Heaven" for example. That phrase kept me hanging on. Their bravery helped them achieve their heaven.
AD
