Black Narcissus

I borrowed our local library's copy of Black Narcissus so many times,
that I finally decided it was time to let others view it, and bought my
very own copy! It is another beautifully remastered, luminous copy from
The Criterion Collection, by that dynamic duo, director Michael Powell
and screenwriter Emeric Pressburger. An adaptation from Rumor
Godden's 1939 novel, it is the story of five Protestant missionary nuns,
led by Sister Clodagh (the magnificent Deborah Kerr), who establish a
school in the Himalayas. The amazing thing about this film, is that it is
filmed entirely in studio, which lends to the feel of the secluded,
mysterious mountain nunnery. The stunning mountain views are
actually painted backgrounds! This effect paid off, because art director
Alfred Junge and cinematographer Jack Cardiff both won Oscars for
their breathtaking technicolor work. The plot contains a subtle, yet
intense love triangle between Sister Clodagh, Sister Ruth (brilliantly
portrayed by Kathleen Byron) and Mr. Dean (the earthy and hairy
chested David Farrar). The strong eroticism felt here is not necessarily
seen, which in my opinion, makes it even more powerful. And adding
to the tension of the plot, Kerr was director Powell's ex-mistress and
Byron his current one! This elegantly crafted piece, weaving a tale of
the spirit vs. the flesh, is one of my very favorite vintage films.