Yö Lissabonissa

Jean Negulesco's "The Conspirators" sounded intriguing when the trailer was shown at TCM. It appeared as though it was well worth a look because of the cast alone. Well, it was a big disappointment!

The story is convoluted, it is hardly plausible what the hero, Vincent, is able to pull, let alone, be allowed to enter Lisbon, at the crucial time when he arrives. The character of Irene remains an enigma throughout the film and finally, there is not enough to make this movie enjoyable.

Paul Henried was a lucky man being in Hollywood while a lot of the American stars were away fighting in WWII. In this film he tries, but there's something about his Vincent that doesn't quite make it. Hedy Lamarr's presence in the movie is pretext to present her in different costumes. Henreid and Lamarr had not enough chemistry to make the film, at least, a nice love story.

Sydney Greenstreet and Peter Lorre are completely wasted and the rest of the players were not interesting enough to keep the viewer's attention at all times. Instead, one feels bored by the proceedings. At least Vincent and Irene, by the magic of the movies, will always have Lisbon!