All That Heaven Allows-1955

Director Douglas Sirk

Starring Rock Hudson, Jane Wyman

Scott’s Review #159

Reviewed August 26, 2014

Grade: B+

All That Heaven Allows is a perfect-looking film as Director Douglas Sirk famously dressed his films in a contemporary, stylish fashion. Traditionally, his films contain a social aspect to them as evidenced by the story at hand in this film.

Affluent socialite Cary falls in love with handsome young gardener Ron and they face the discrimination of a town where status is everything and gossip is rampant.

I love the chemistry between Jane Wyman (Cary) and Rock Hudson (Ron) and the small town in New England is so perfect looking- sets, cinematography, that it fits the subject matter perfectly- most of the townspeople live these seemingly perfect lives and look down on anyone with a different outlook or way of living.

There is a stifling feeling oozing from these people that contrasts perfectly with the open-mindedness and freedom of Ron and the conflict faced by Cary.

On the one hand, she is passionate about Ron and wants a life with him; on the other, she is unsure if she wants to toss away a comfortable, affluent life with perks like the social club and a beautiful house.

The aforementioned chemistry between the leads is really what makes this film special.

All That Heaven Allows was heavily influential to one of my favorite films, the masterpiece Far from Heaven, which substituted the age factor for race.