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Based on W. Somerset Maugham's highly acclaimed 1944 novel, this is a sprawling, ambitious account of one man's quest for spiritual identity. Over a number of years and continents, we watch as Chicago scion Larry Darrell, newly returned from World War I, breaks off his engagement to the lovely but shallow Isabel in order to run off to Paris, and then India, in search of enlightenment. Years pass, the stock market crashes, and the former lovers are reunited. Larry has found the peace he seeks, but the now-married Isabel is still obsessed with him, resulting in great tragedy. Power and Tierney both excel in their leading roles, but the real kudos belong to the supporting players: Clifton Webb, who is excellent as Isabel's fussy uncle, and Anne Baxter, harrowingly raw as the woman Larry tries to rescue from alcoholic ruin. Herbert Marshall plays Maugham, the author and witness to this strange saga of truth, love, and delusion. Director Edmund Goulding ('Grand Hotel') sets up a luxurious and spacious atmosphere, adorning the lavish sets with bouquets and champagne, while giving the actors plenty of room to move and emote.
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