The “variety woman” of the title is the aged, rich, and gracious spinster Mary Herries (Ethel Barrymore), a patron of the humanities. Her kindness brings her to the brink of tragedy when she befriends the seemingly guileless and struggling artist Henry Elcott (famend Shakespearean actor Maurice Evans in his first display screen function).
Earlier than she is aware of it, Henry has moved into her London townhouse together with his frightened, ailing spouse (Betsy Blair) and youngster, changed her servants with the sinister Mr and Mrs Edwards (Keenan Wynn and Angela Lansbury), holds Mrs Herries captive in her bed room, and begins to get rid of her artwork treasures, together with authentic works by El Greco and Rembrandt.
The story traces the devious strategies by which the smooth-talking Elcott convinces neighbourhood tradesmen, postmen, policemen on the beat, and even Miss Harries’ banker (John Williams) that the previous woman has develop into mentally unbalanced. He additionally prevents assist from coming to the stricken girl, making prisoners of the previous woman and her long-time maid, Rose (Doris Lloyd).
It appears as if Miss Herries’ life is doomed, however she manages to extricate herself from her dire predicament and turns the tables on her oppressor.
Evans is totally convincing because the treacherous Elcott – suave, charming, sly, crafty and sadistic by turns.
The gripping and suspenseful MGM movie was tailored from Edward Chodorov’s theatre success primarily based on a Hugh Walpole novel.
Mary Herries
Ethel Barrymore
Henry Springer Elcott
Maurice Evans
Mrs Edwards
Angela Lansbury
Edwards
Keenan Wynn
Ada Elcott
Betsy Blair
Mr Foster
John Williams
Rose
Doris Lloyd
Vintage Seller
John O’Malley
Monsieur Malaquaise
Henri Letondal
Mrs Harkley
Moyna MacGill
Mr Harkley
Barry Bernard
Lucy Weston
Sally Cooper
Chauffeur
Arthur Gould-Porter
Aggie Edwards
Sherlee Collier
Dora
Phyllis Morris
Constable Orkin
Patrick O’Moore
Jones
Keith McConnell
Postman
Leonard Carey
Doc
Victor Wooden
Director
John Sturges
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