The Passionate Friends

by Bruce R Sat Mar 23, 2019 4:11 pm

The 1949 drama THE PASSIONATE FRIENDS reminded me of the 1946 BRIEF ENCOUNTER (the latter being the better film).

Trevor Howard stars in both films. PASSIONATE FRIENDS also stars Ann Todd and Claude Rains.

Based on a novel by H.G. Wells, Mary Justin (Ann Todd) is married to wealthy banker Howard Justin (Claude Rains). Rains is able to afford to give her the comfort and security she desires--albeit, with no excitement. A choice she made some nine years prior.

While visiting Switzerland, Todd bumps into Steve Stratton (Trevor Howard), with whom she actually was in love with before she before she decided to play it safe with Rains.

The romance is rekindled, and once again, she has to decide if she should leave her husband in hope of finding real passion or stay with a man who treats her well but whom she does not love. What to do???

If you enjoyed BRIEF ENCOUNTER you will probably enjoy THE PASSIONATE FRIENDS. But if you have to choose, the former is the clear-cut winner. If you happen to view THE PASSIONATE FRIENDS and enjoy(ed) it, do yourself a favor and view BRIEF ENCOUNTER.

Bruce R