Writer-director Nunnally Johnson's 1956 film adaptation of Sloan Wilson's bestselling novel about a Madison Avenue ad exec searching for meaning in his life stars Gregory Peck (always best in roles that reflected his socially conscious views), who nails the characterization of a hard-charging professional forced to reevaluate his priorities and choose between business success and the happiness of his family. A strong subplot, involving the married ad man's illicit affair with an Italian beauty in Rome, gives co-star Jennifer Jones ample opportunity to shine as the wounded wife tempted to leave her wayward husband. Reserved, perhaps even repressed, Jones plays the classic ‘50s suburban homemaker, and her palpable heartbreak is especially moving, while Marisa Pavan is enormously appealing as the object of Peck's marital transgression. In the Madison Avenue part of the story, Fredric March excels as the dynamic broadcasting tycoon whose business is highly coveted by Peck's character and his co-workers. Although the 1950s was a period in which Hollywood generally reinforced traditional values, filmmakers occasionally dared to make movies that suggested the American Dream wasn't always what it was cracked up to be. The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit met the subject head on, and in so doing became one of the decade's most memorable pictures. Presented with an excellent transfer, DVD extras here include a commentary track by author James Monaco, footage from the film's premiere, and a restoration demo. Highly recommended. (E. Hulse)
The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit
Fox, 152 min., not rated, DVD: $14.98 Volume 20, Issue 6
The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit
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