A notorious 1935 court case involving a flighty, gregarious wife, her aged husband, and an 18-year-old lover is the subject of this British telefilm adapted from a play by Sir Terence Rattigan, who wrote such classics as The Winslow Boy, The Browning Version, and Separate Tables. When old, infirm Francis Rattenbury is found bludgeoned to death, his far younger second wife Alma is charged with murder, but her attorney is determined to prove that it was actually George Bowman, a local boy hired to work in the household and also Alma's lover, who reputedly committed the crime in a jealous rage. There's not much suspense to be had here—the film is more character study than thriller—but the period detail is excellent, and those drawn to genteel English entertainment should find Cause Célèbre (1987) a pleasant diversion, particularly since—with one exception—the cast is strong. The always superb Helen Mirren lends Alma surprising shading, a pre-Poirot David Suchet makes the wily barrister a compelling figure, and Harry Andrews, in one of his last roles, is suitably brusque as the doomed husband. Only David Morrissey disappoints as Alma's Romeo—not only does he look too old for the part, he's utterly bland to boot. Presented with an unexceptional transfer, and no extras, this is an optional purchase. (F. Swietek)
Cause Célèbre
Koch, 105 min., not rated, DVD: $14.98 Volume 21, Issue 2
Cause Célèbre
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