Temptation

The old theatrical war horse 'Bella Donna', first performed on stage by Alla Nazimova is here re-titled 'Temptation' with Merle Oberon following in the footsteps of Pola Negri and Mary Ellis on film. Classy Miss Oberon with her air of mystery and subdued sensuality is ideally cast as Ruby, is further enhanced by the fabulous costumes of master designer Orry-Kelly and is of course flattered by the 'Obie' light created by her then husband, cinematographer Lucien Ballard. In the thankless part of her good-natured, cuckolded husband, George Brent does the best he can whilst Charles Korvin as the beastly Baroudi and Miss Oberon have a powerful chemistry. As the voice of Ruby's conscience the immaculate Paul Lukas as usual quietly steals all of his scenes. The only weak link is Suzanne Cloutier as Yvonne but happily she has little screen time. She went on of course to play Desdemona, yet another of Orson Welles' bizarre casting choices. There is an intriguing appearance by the brilliant and ill-fated photojournalist Robert Capa who visited his friend Charles Korvin on the set and ended up playing his servant.

Although slowly paced and clearly showing its theatrical roots, this tale of infidelity, blackmail, poisonings and an Egyptian mummy's curse keeps one watching thanks to its leading players and Irving Pichel's capable if somewhat uninspired direction.