The Letter (1940)

Synopsis: William Wyler created the powerful opening for THE LETTER from the few words he says were in the script: "You hear a gunshot and you see a woman coming out shooting a man." Leslie's husband, Robert... William Wyler created the powerful opening for THE LETTER from the few words he says were in the script: "You hear a gunshot and you see a woman coming out shooting a man." Leslie's husband, Robert (Herbert Marshall), is stunned at the shooting; colonial official John Withers (Bruce Lester) is overwhelmed, out of his depth; and the Crosbie's lawyer, Howard Joyce (James Stephenson), is thoughtful. Leslie says Hammond tried to rape her. They all seem to accept her explanation. So she is surprised when a trial is necessary. It seems a letter has been found, by Hammond's Eurasian widow (Gale Sondergaard)--a letter that Leslie wrote to Hammond on the day of the shooting; a letter, Leslie lets Howard know, it would be a good idea to obtain--no matter the cost. THE LETTER is one of William Wyler's best movies. Based on W. Somerset Maugham's play, it is taught and exciting. Wyler and master photographer Gregg Toland use tense compositions with the protagonists pressed together, facing the same way, and receding diagonally across the frame. Bette Davis is compelling and James Stephenson in his first major role is riveting. [More]

Starring: Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, James Stephenson, Gale Sondergaard

Starring: Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, James Stephenson, Gale Sondergaard, Bruce Lester, Cecil Kellaway, Victor Sen Yung, Doris Lloyd, Willie Fung, Tetsu Komai, Leonard Mudie, John Ridgely

Director: William Wyler

Director: William Wyler
Producer: Robert Lord
Story: W. Somerset Maugham
Composer: Max Steiner

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