THE HEIRESS (1949) -- triumph of a strong woman, or tragedy of a tortured soul? (SPOILERS!!!)

WARNING! Spoilers for The Heiress (1949). Is it a triumphant story of an independent woman, or a tragedy of an unloved soul?
Disclaimers: I am not a film scholar and am presenting only my own observations, for what they're worth. While I hope some may find my insights interesting, I do not claim they are definitive or exhaustive.
LINKS to previous videos:
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"M":
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Strangers on a Train: • Strangers On A Train: ...
Perfect Blue (1997): • PERFECT BLUE (1997) - ...
Black Swan (2010): • BLACK SWAN (2010) - ...
Enemy (2013): • ENEMY (2013) - It's al...
AI - Artificial Intelligence (2001): • AI - Artificial Intell...
The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017): • The Killing of a Sacre...
The Lobster (2015): • The Lobster (2015) - l...
Audition (1999): • Audition (1999) - what...
Color Out of Space (2019): • Video
Mandy: • Mandy (2018) - an appr...
The Lighthouse: • The Lighthouse (2019) ...
The Witch: • THE VVITCH (2015) - do...
Under the Skin: • Under the Skin - dro...
Blue Ruin: • Blue Ruin (2013) - a v...
Midsommar: • MIDSOMMAR (2018) - sum...
Suspiria (2018): • SUSPIRIA (2018) - It's...
Check out my movie reviews on Letterboxd: letterboxd.com...
This is intended for viewers who are familiar with the film, but if spoilers are not a deterrent, it is not necessary to have seen the movie to follow this video.
All clips taken from The Heiress (1949). This video was made for the purpose of film appreciation/criticism and I believe these contents fall under fair use IP laws.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

Side note: I notice an odd similarity to the score and "Can't Help Falling in Love". It can be heard in part at 23:06.

[@dwhitman3092]

Thought it was only me that realized a similarity, lol. Peace and well being for you.

[@bigdave5300]

I just saw this for the first time on Saturday and thought the SAME THING

[@kylerobl6878]

It's no coincidence: the original piece, "Plaisir d"amour", was the inspiration for the song "Can't Help Falling in Love". In "Plaisir d'amour", though, the song is about how love screws you over..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5ulf6NmbMSkpc0

[@garrywood5345]

Noticed that myself..the Andy Williams Version (UK N03 1970) Is Superior to Elvis Presley's Effort.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

@@kylerobl6878 Interesting. Thanks for the info!

[@DavyThomas88]

"Yes, I can be very cruel, I have been taught, by masters..." perfection

[@ricardocantoral7672]

The Joker: "I need an adult".

[@Cheryl-wx8ty]

I love it

[@lilybond6485]

Yes. I will never forget that line. I remember it from the 1st time that I saw this movie -- decades ago.

[@raindance4316]

My favorite line out of every movie I've ever seen, absolutely the best!

[@johnnypastrana6727]

Yes, quite a line isn't it? Olivia delivers it perfectly. The age of innocence was long gone at that point.

[@lindaharwood6295]

I just wanted to let you know that I have a whole different take on this movie. At the end of the movie I feel she has come full circle with this man and I can see her going to the big summer House on the lake with her aunt and cousin, in deciding not to do embroidery anymore as she is going to live her life to the fullest now. She is full of Triumph and confidence . it is expressed in her face as she walks up the staircase.

[@NosyHausfrau]

I have the same take. She didn’t love needlepoint, it was part of conforming. Young ladies did things like that. She gave it up as an act of defiance but also because she intended to live her life. She doesn’t go upstairs to a prison, she ascends, and they shot it that way for that reason. She has her own money and a sense of self that means she will live her life making her own opinion the one that counts most. This is echoed in the remake “Washington Square” where she says “Whatever else happened I did love once, truly.”

[@ilovebarbra2]

I felt that way too when I saw it for the first time last night,4/9/21

[@lindaname9413]

I agree with you!

[@laural1543]

I totally agree with your perspective on the film. Katherine finally comes into her own, and her future will be controlled by her, and the fact that she gives up the embroidery is symbolic of her going “out into the world”.

[@lindaname9413]

Yes! She was totally honest with herself. She did forgive him, but she recognized him for what he was. Hitching his wagon to her star. He would honor her but who knows how long before he found a prettier woman. Her money was always the goal. "How happy we will be" yes he would be very happy. And the embroidery was the only outlet that she could have pride i, since her father negated her every try at doing something well. But, now she could hold her head up and move on.

[@tadimaggio]

My favorite line in this film is when Catherine faces down her father, and says that, in spite of what she now knows about Morris, she still feels the pain of his loss. When her father asks her how this can be, since she now knows he was only after her money, she replies icily: "What of it? I don't have any reason to think that he would have made me miserable, as you always have."

[@MelancoliaI]

He needed to hear that for sure. My favorite lines are "I have learned from masters" and of course "Bolt the door, Moriah"

[@danielaegli4176]

The reason why Morris is punching and screaming at her door, asking for forgiveness, is because he is homeless. He lost everything so tries to return to Catherine. He doesn't love her.

[@elainebmack]

One very brief moment in this film gets to me every time. (16:00-16:25) Catherine is saying goodbye to her aunt, cousin and their young kids after a visit to the Sloper home years after her father's death. She pauses just for a moment at that little entry way where Morris first mentions their elopement in the rain years before. The memories and pain are still there.

[@beechnut8779]

I love how this intelligent movie respects its viewers and leaves so much ambiguous. Does Morris really love her or not? Is she emotionally free at the end or trapped in bitterness? This is the kind of movie one can discuss at length, as evidenced by all the comments here. For me the ending, as she is walking up up the stairs with wide eyes, almost a smile, thinking to herself "I can't believe I had the strength to leave Morris behind for good" is the counterpoint to her earlier walk up the stairs when she is utterly defeated. She finishes and cuts her last needlepoint - symbolizing cutting the last thread to the past, to her father, to Morris, to their hold on her. I find the ending mostly hopeful, that even though she will likely never find love, she has found herself.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

A very viable interpretation. I'm probably closer to your point of view than it may seem. My purpose in presenting the video was not to definitively say that her life was ruined, but to offer an alternative to what seems to be an uncontested interpretation that somehow the ending is wildly happy. There's plenty to suggest otherwise, and it astounds me that so many people can't/won't see that angle.

[@patricialk4996]

I totally disagree with your synopsis of the ending. Morris comes back from California to find that the doctor has died and figured he has the opportunity to get it all this time. Remember, he left because 10k a year wasn't enough, when 30k was on the table. Now she has ALL of her father's possessions. She got her revenge in the end. She was not entombing herself, but locking out the narcissistic blood sucker, who dared to come back treating her like she was the same naive fool, he took advantage of in the past. What you are saying is coming from a man's thinking, not a woman's. Both opinions though can be proven out, and that's what makes this multifaceted gem so beautiful and rare! I believe, Morris beat on that door trying to regain, what he believes belongs to him, though it never did, like most narcissists do...

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I don't agree that we disagree (mostly). haha. I agree with you that probably Morris was completely insincere (although we can't know this for sure). I also agree that Morris sees Catherine as a possession. That's in large part my thesis, after all. I also agree she was revenged against Morris. But, the idea that she's only closing him out and not shutting herself in is belied by the fact that she never leaves her house again, and refuses invitations to socialize years after her abandonment. There is no suggestion whatever in the film that she is not shutting herself in, and in fact several suggestions that she is. She even says expressly to her father that he wants her to grow old alone and unloved, locked away in his house - and that's precisely what we're shown happening. She can't even take a compliment at this point, assuming that anyone offering her one has ulterior motives - note the scene with the servant. There's a reason we're shown these things and not things showing her overcoming the emotional damage Morris caused. Dismissing my analysis as 'a man's thinking' is disingenuous. The movie was written and directed by men, based on a novel by a man. There's nothing about men's thinking that runs contrary to understanding this story. I am simply looking at the actual text of the film and not making assumptions based on my 'druthers, which seems to be what those who consider the ending happy are doing. Anyway I'm content knowing that many people do see it as a triumphant ending. I'm just offering an alternative interpretation that's supported by the content of the film. To me, additional ways of looking at a film are a good thing. So I agree with you there as well.

[@margaretgill4330]

Exactly....and if by chance he did feel something for her in the end., Because of his desperate situation of being penniless and homeless,.then he received the same treatment of being rejected. What goes around comes around. That is not unconditional love...its love with interests attached💰 💰 Law of cause and effect. Great film. Great actors.

[@jenniferdonlin6627]

In the end, Catherine has triumphed--she is true to herself and has beaten both her father and Morris.

[@mary-ellenbucko4322]

Saw this movie right before I graduated from college. The end had me screaming... I was jumping up and down and screaming. I LOVE it when a woman chooses herself !!

[@snowbird9660]

Catherine’ was on target about Morris’ intentions. Actions speak louder than words. I don’t think Catherine was at all cruel. If she had married Morris she would have been penniless and abandoned. Maybe with children too. At least she has her fortune and can be self sufficient even though she has no mate. She wised up in the end. Why should she have let her father and Morris continue to abuse her? That’s not being cruel, that’s being smart.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I don't think anyone would suggest that she should have married Morris. However, her treatment of him - the way she dismisses him does seem cruel if you don't assume he was ill-intentioned. She says so herself, so I don't think there's much controversy there. The tragedy is not that she didn't end up with Morris, it's that she let the bad experience with him determine the rest of her life. She closes out everyone because the one person she let get close hurt her.

[@fkd1963]

Brilliant film on all counts: the direction, the costumes, the score, the cinematography, and the perfs of Olivia, Ralph, and the rest of the cast. The strength of the story can enable the viewer to envision two futures for Catherine--a lonely and bitter spinster or a woman who realizes she is freedom and can f*ck the past and seek a happy future. I think the latter is plausible--the evil father is gone, the simp Morris is gone, and she has the money and youth! She could say yes to her aunt and spend the summer in Newport and get hitched to a guy who loves her and has his own money. Best scene: Catherine walks up the stairs after being jilted.

[@andrewkohler3707]

Or, she might find happiness without marrying. The ambiguity of that final ascent of the staircase is the perfect ending (also, going up the stairs the first time, which you cited, is also incredible - I love that this video puts the two ascents side by side).

[@ilovebarbra2]

A year ago since I discovered The Heiress I have watched it 67 times ,the entire movie, and while I disagree with parts of this summation it it still an astute observation.

[@lilybond6485]

It’s on right now TCM Turner Classic Movies. Got to be one of my most favorite movies of all time. In the end -- that walk up the stairs. She gave the ultimate “get back”.

[@thankthelord4536]

I saw it the other night on TCM too.

[@IceBreakerMint]

This is on my top all time favorite films since I saw it on TV with my Mother when I was 13. She explained how everyone reacted when she saw it for the first time at the movie Theater. Now I have the DVD and it still pulls you in. I believe you nailed why it still works when you mentioned that each scene advances the story. I also believe that the stairs are a character on its own. Thanks.

[@Cheryl-wx8ty]

I love this movie. I won't watch no other copies. I relax to it at night most times to fall asleep. Not out of boredom but I just love it. I'm sleep after the dance and awake at the end but fall back to sleep. It's my favorite classic. R.I.P MRS. Olivia DeHavilian.⚘🙏🏿

[@roypeaslee1305]

This is a great movie about how brutal life can be even among the elite. The performance of the three main actors is outstanding as they portrayed the actions and emotions of their parts. I have watched this movie a few times, it's a great story.

[@contentious9457]

I saw this on tv before I read it won all those awards, and I knew it was something extraordinary.

[@lawsonj39]

It says so much about Olivia De Havilland that she accepted a role as a plain Jane--and had a great influence on getting the film made. She played the role so beautifully and made the radical change in the character entirely believable. The outcome of the plot is haunting: you're never sure whether the father's initial suspicions were correct or whether they became a self-fulfilling prophecy.

[@christiansoldier77]

John Lawson What are you talking about ? Morris was just looking for money . The movie makes this as plain as day.

[@sharonrojas9569]

Morris fled to California to the gold fields. This movie is based on Henry James "Washington Square" which is set in New York City in the 1840s.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

Yes. As I've mentioned elsewhere, being Canadian I made a mental error in thinking of California as being in a foreign land. Of course, it's not.

[@agenttheater5]

It's the funny thing about the movie - sometimes in the ending I think she's cut herself off from love completely, sometimes I see it as a triumph. In the book 'Washington Square' sometimes I think she's resigned herself to solitude, sometimes I think 'she's content, she's happy with what she's got'. Either way it's still a good story.

[@queentee2806]

My mother showed me this movie as a young child it made me understand her a little bit better such amazing acting

[@richardblais5232]

There is nothing like a good b&w NYC motion picture - regardless of the historical period ... I've enjoyed this film many times over and appreciate this review - well done.

[@dwhitman3092]

Thank you for this great review. It did allow me to see the nuance of script and performance for Monty..... That he could have possibly real affection for her..... It's left me bereft of a grounded conclusion.... Which I don't really care for- to be left hanging.... Nonetheless, grateful for your perspective... And, I actually wasn't aware of this film until Ms. De- Havilland's death. What an accomplished actress.... What a wonderful film.

[@jennyp4934]

I haven't seen this movie for years as it really upset me. Katherine was a beautiful person that suffered from.the hands of her father and Morris. And I think it destroyed her. Triumphant perhaps because she was free from them, but the pain and the hurt would go on forever.

[@carolepichot1305]

My favorite actor Monty Clift I love him 🥰🥰🥰 Carole from France 🇫🇷

[@orlandocordova4381]

I can't blame her! Been there! Never again

[@maryserrano6448]

I never get tried of seeing this movie 🎥. It contains great 👍 actors, along with their acting skills. I love the ending, Morris, gets left outside, knocking on the door 🚪. And Catherine, with the lamp in her hand goes up the stairs and thus begins a new chapter in her life.

[@namyarasree]

What a great movie.! Olivia de Havilland is quite an actress, and the end is unexpected and really good.!!!! How wonderful to have the whole movie.!! Montgomery Clift is handsome in that movie. Catherine, the shy girl, taking revenge on her cruel father, and her lover who let her down and comes back when he learns she inherited.

[@thankthelord4536]

A hurt woman can be flower, then a dying weed. And taught by masters!

[@elainebmack]

The buttons given to Morris look just like the door handles when Morris is knocking at the door at the end.

[@tracymorgan5386]

Frankly I think it’s sexist to assume no one wins . It’s greatly possible Katherine left that house and took her aunts offer to visit and decided to start fresh someplace else and considering her resources could I’ve easily found someone to marry of her choosing and that benefited her.

[@Lily_of_the_Forest]

This is what I like to think too. She has money and no one to control or boss her around, like men did back then. Catherine has complete, ultimate, beautiful FREEDOM!

[@ilovebarbra2]

Ten thousand to 30 thousand a year in todays money would be about 340 thousand dollars to just over a million ,so it's plausible that she could move anywhere she wanted to and make a fresh start, even if she stayed in her house ,because it is now her house, she could still travel as often as she liked. I don't see her just lingering in the house till she died, she may be gruff when given a compliment but that would soften in time when she learns to trust such a thing again ,still guarded but softer.

[@followthesun2115]

I really enjoyed your commentary on this complex film. I arrived at the same conclusion you did regarding Catherine. The years of rejection turned her into a tragic figure - cynical and hard-hearted.

[@lawsonj39]

Is self-protection really cynical? After her experience in life? If this story had been told by a female author, it might well be celebrated as a document of feminine self-liberation.

[@georg_couch]

@@lawsonj39 I think that both sides of that coin make for a valid reading of the film: de Havilland's character does manage to better read between the lines and not fall victim to deception and exploitation. At the very same time, she becomes cold hearted and cruel, not by virtue of the way she treats Clift (probably the way he deserved to be treated) but by the look in her eyes as she ascends the stairs. Truly a spine chilling performance by de Havilland and a masterfully directed film.

[@lilybond6485]

I really enjoyed the commentary. I’ve seen this movie so many times I almost know every line coming. I did think that Montgomery Clift’s acting was a little sub par.

[@johnnypastrana6727]

Nice analysis but Morris doesn't flee to America...the Slopers live in New York City...he flees to California... I don't see any cruelty in how she treats Morris...nothing cruel about it...as he took a big dump on her. I did see cruelty when the maid complimented her on her beautiful dress and when she asked for time off for a walk with Cooky through the park, Ms. Sloper accused her of making false, and insincere compliments. It does come out there...which is tragic and indicates an anger management issue deep within her. Life for many of us though is a coming through slaughter...so I understand where she is coming from.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

Sure, we all understand where she's coming from. Cruel doesn't equate to unjust. It equals unmerciful. She treats Morris fairly, but mercilessly. She says herself that she's become cruel so I don't think that's really controversial. Re: the California thing, yes that's been pointed out before. I'm in Canada, and it was a mental slip - I was thinking of 'here' as being where I am rather than Washington Square. Whoops.

[@johnnypastrana6727]

@@ShootMeMovieReviews Why do Canadians secretly despise all Americans?

[@ilovebarbra2]

But she would soften in time, she may not trust easily but she would soften her stance as she learns who is sincere and who is blowing smoke. Since the maid said she was sincere that would give Catherine pause to take each compliment as it comes and from who.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@ShootMeMovieReviews But she says I can be very cruel ,not that she is mercilessly cruel all the time. I can be an asshole but I am not an asshole all the time ,just when necessary.

[@christiansoldier77]

@@ilovebarbra2 A person is never supposed to be cruel thats the point

[@christiansoldier77]

What do you mean you dont know for sure how Morris feels ? The movie does an excellent job of giving us clues that he doesnt care for her and then when he deserts her it is painfully obvious.

[@ilovebarbra2]

I think he grew found of her though I don't think he loved her but his greed outweighed his fondness. And when he came back he played that same card but lost.

[@christiansoldier77]

@@ilovebarbra2 He grew fond of her? He deserted her without any explanation and went as far away from her as he could get in the continental United States 😂 I know when l am fond of a woman that's exactly how I treat her lol

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@christiansoldier77 Yes he did, grow fond of her. fond does not mean love, he didn't love her that's for certain but he liked her ,he just liked her money more.

[@christiansoldier77]

@@ilovebarbra2 Goodness you are clueless. He wasnt fond of her at all thats why her deserted her with no explanation not even a letter . He only wanted her money

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@christiansoldier77 not clueless ,I saw the same movie you saw yet I see that he had a fondness for her, you are mistaking or equating the word fondness for the word love . yes he was interested in all of her money not just some of it ,people can take advantage of even those they like

[@OtterOsita]

Thank you for this video. I really enjoyed it.

[@yrellim]

I think her locking Morris out is closing one door t0 open another- to a righter future-who knows?

[@benleung6331]

But locking herself in the house is not opening a new door. She can lock Morris out without being in the house herself. It is a great revenge but not a emancipation on Catherine

[@chrissieelizabethturner7065]

At least Morris got the rubies Catherine gave him. He'll get a nice price for them.

[@chloerodriguez1514]

RIH💔 Definition of a Star !

[@flowerpower8347]

I saw this movie for the first time on TCM yesterday but there are a few things I do not understand. Among my questions are: Why did Catherine give Townsend the little box of gems before she locked him out? Also, what did Catherine mean when she said " the first time he only wanted my money but now he wants my love too?" Thirdly, was Townsend banging on the door at the very end because he was out of money and therefore desperate in viewing Catherin as his only, if not last, opportunity to get ahead? If so, I don't understand that either given that Townsend ran into her aunt by chance rather than intention. At the end, when Catherine said she had been taught to be cruel by masters was that meant to be a slight against her aunt in addition to her father and Townsend?

[@ilovebarbra2]

I believe she gave Morris the box of buttons because she didn't want them as a remembrance and she wanted to show him what he could have had ,nice things ,a beautiful home, etc. if only he hadn't tried to do the same number on her before he deserted her. Also he was banging on the door out of despair, because he is broker than ever and he was expecting her to fawn over him again, when he was locked out he freaked. And She IS also talking to Aunt Penniman as well as her father about being taught by masters. Because she tried to convince her that what Morris did was just a simple misunderstanding and Catherine should just understand ,and on the night he left Aunty dearest said she shouldn't have told him about being disinherited ,so she knew that he only wanted her money but still brought him back to her . I do think Morris was fond of her but not in love with her because at the end when she asks if he loves her he does not reply Yes, he gives her some line .

[@elainebmack]

@@ilovebarbra2 . Your observation about Aunt Penniman is interesting. She knew, on some level, that Morris was out for Catherine's money, hence the comment about Catherine not "...a little more clever" in telling Morris that she intended to leave without getting her inheritance. I think Aunt Penniman wanted Morris in HER life too. She kept trying to interject her presence in their lives, to the point of suggesting that she go with them on their elopement. HUH??? Morris was a user for sure. No one has commented on how his face changed when Catherine declared her independence from her father that night in the rain. (I'm going to repost this comment in ther thread so more can see it. Thank you for your insights)

[@CeeLiberty]

Excellent review of a very complex story. So many see Catherine's ending as a triumph. But, like you, I also see it as tragedy. Catherine will no doubt live her life now feeling vindicated but it is still so tragic.

[@mwhitehall889]

This narrative is gpod but best to see the full movie....nothing replaces it. Thanks. Franny P.

[@berjaboy]

In the end you have to ask yourself if Catherine Sloper turned into a woman you admire and like, and I have to say no. Yes, she certainly became a stronger woman, but not someone I would necessarily want to be friends with. The later interaction she has with her maid pretty much says it all. Instead of simply accepting a complement from her staff, she openly questions her sincerity.

[@patricialk4996]

I think she just learned to see through the BS, and wasn't going to have it from her made too.

[@joetursi9573]

I can't help falling in love is the same melody.

[@isabele537]

O final da De Havilland subindo as escadas é estarrecedor.Soberba atuação de Havilland como a Catherine.😮

[@XX-gy7ue]

SO TRUE , THEY ALL LOST - SHE A VICTIM OF CIRCUMSTANCES BEYOND HER CONTROL , AND NEVER BEING TOLD THAT THERE MAY BE OTHER OPTIONS ! SAD ! BUT WOW , SO TRUE !

[@misssissivoss]

I'm wondering. Does she realy give up embroidery or does she just finish the colour and cut the thread and goes to bed? In the book she continues her work.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I believe she states expressly that she won't do another, but it's been a while now. I could be wrong.

[@almohvn33]

Number 1 on my list of all time greats. I think one must see this and decide.

[@almohvn33]

Just watched again yesterday. I almost want to watch again today!

[@audie2574]

I bought two discs of this movie because not only is it my all-time favorite, but Olivia de Havilland is my favorite actress. Her statement, "Yes, I can be very cruel. I have been taught by masters" is the most heart-rending line in any movie. Her ascension of the stairs as a defeated, broken person juxtaposed to her ascension later as a free and emotionally well-armed woman is genius. How I hope they find this movie worth colorizing just to see her "cherry red" dress. I sent Ms. de Havilland a birthday card each year after she passed 100. Rest in peace, dear lady.

[@danegirl2866]

why can't I find this movie anywhere to watch or even rent?

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I had a lot of trouble finding it too. I wound up buying an old dvd on Amazon. I guess there's not much of a market for classic films, and a lot of the studios aren't bothering to make them available for purchase.

[@edphil6073]

Question: I noticed this house has 3 floors , do you think this house still exist ?

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I have always assumed the interior was a set, and that the stairway didn't actually go anywhere. But I could be mistaken. If it is a real house, I have to wonder where the camera was placed to record her ascent up the stairway. It would be 'behind' the mirror shown from the reverse angle, I suppose.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@ShootMeMovieReviews If it is a set it represents NYC homes of that type beautifully. If it's a real house WOW!

[@christianealshut1123]

What I have noticed about all the versions of this story is that they all make look Catherine too slender - from reading the novel I ´know that she is supposed to be almost "plus-size"...Only Agnieszka Holland in her version pays a little tribute to that by showing us Catherine as a child and having her played by a rather chubby actress. But I guess that fits in with the general tedency of "erring on the side of attractiveness", most film versions of book characters are much more attractive than their book originals.

[@audie2574]

Ms. de Havilland, a great beauty, somehow portrays a plain woman convincingly in this movie. Oscar!

[@audie2574]

A movie called "Washington Square" with Jennifer Jason Leigh is a remake of this movie and portrays the child of Catherine as chubby.

[@christianealshut1123]

@@audie2574 It's not actually a remake of the movie with Olivia de Havilland, as the movie with Olivia de Havilland is based on a play titled The Heiress, which is in its turn based on Henry James's Washington Square. Agnieszka Holland films Henry James's Washington Square directy. They slightly differ because Holland's version portrays Catherina as an awkward and eager-to-please girl while the version with de Havilland portrays her as spinsterish (in a way dommed to being a spinster) from the beginning. in Holland's version, Catherine does end up a spinster, but Holland is always intent on showing that her story does not end in defeat.

[@RichardHannay]

Greeeeat analysis!

[@bubokeeper]

The part near the end where she cannot accept the sincere compliment coming from Mariah really shows the tragedy...Katherine becomes cruel to herself in not being able to take a compliment she sees herself as ugly and unworthy. Yes she frees herself from cruel men, but loses kindness along the way..she won't be happy that way.😢 She has self-respect but not self-esteem...

[@nancygwyn7565]

I totally agree. She thinks the maid is lying because she doesn't feel within herself that she is attractive, so of course the maid is lying to her. S Catherine has learned to fight and protect herself, but hasn't learned to love and value herself. When we don't truly love ourselves we won't have the capacity to show compassion to others.

[@montserratestudillo2839]

I think is the sad story of a unloved women

[@Ольга-х2н4п]

Фильм очень понравился. Поведение отца впечатлило. Мудрый отец,который смог защитить свою дочь от лживого жениха.Несколько раз пересмотрела фильм.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

Easy for you to say. :P

[@danapnmk]

When you watch the film, you feel with the young protagonist and it hurts so much. She deserves the Oscar very much.

[@ricardocantoral7672]

Catherine's metamorphosis is one of the most startling actions ever committed to film. Almost no actor back then or now can come close to Olivia De Havilland's performance.

[@ilovebarbra2]

I agree. She may have become bitter and even cruel but I believe Catherine would not have stayed that way for the rest of her life. She would be cautious and a bit cynical but she would love someone deeply,someone of her choosing.

[@jennyp4934]

I actually think she might have stayed that way. Her father destroyed her. I haven't seen this movie for years as I found it so incredibly sad. But it really shows how parents can do incredible damage.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@jennyp4934 I don't think she does stay that way, bitter and distrustful? perhaps, but her giving up needlepoint was representative of giving up the old life and starting a new life alone, after watching it twice I believe she will never marry ,but she also won't stay locked up in that house till she dies, she will go to her Aunt's vacation home, finally. She will dote on her cousins children, she will go out and visit friends, make friends. be always cautious ,but most of all she will be happy, At the end as she is walking up the stairs she has a glow ,not from the lamp but from inside her soul. She even has the beginnings of a smile. She had her say to her father, to Morris ,even Aunt Lavinia ,for she is one of "the masters". With the way she's grown throughout the movie she will not become a recluse.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@jennyp4934 After watching it a lot and reading different references about the book and play and the movie. I agree that she stayed single but not alone or lonely,she has the two little ones that she seems to adore visit her and Her Aunt Liz and her cousin even Lavinia, she would travel a great deal ,enjoy her wealth. Share it . She would leave her money to the two little ones Andrew and Cathy is it?

[@jennyp4934]

@@ilovebarbra2 I'm going to have to watch it again and I will keep your thoughts in mind. I just hesitate to think that as I personally know ones who were treated badly by parents and most have been destroyed by the treatment. A few have broken free, but those ones have had incredible strength, but I guess Olivia de Havilland's character started to show great strength as she started to put her father in his place.

[@tracymorgan5386]

That scene when she finally stands up to her father is awesome.

[@GradKat]

Yes. Olivia de Havilland was a wonderful actress.

[@pamalford8319]

"I lived with you for 20 years before I found out you didn't love me. I don't know that Morris would have hurt me or starved me for affection more than you did. Since you couldn't love me, you should have let someone else try." One of the finest (if not the best) acting performances I have ever seen. The look of hate and contempt in her eyes for her emotionally abusive and dying father gives me chills every time I watch it.

[@tracymorgan5386]

@@pamalford8319 totally agree

[@ricardocantoral7672]

She doesn't stand up to him, she breaks him in pieces.

[@tracymorgan5386]

@@ricardocantoral7672 I know. It was awesome

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I just learned the news that Olivia DeHavilland has died at 104. Truly one of the greatest and most beloved Hollywood Stars. Her performances will be preserved for posterity in the many great films she appeared in. I hope you all get a chance to see her work.

[@lmlm-ph4pp]

Do you know where The Heiress is streaming? I haven't had any luck finding it.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

@@lmlm-ph4pp I don't, sorry. I bought the dvd on Amazon, and transferred the video to make this.

[@dwhitman3092]

@@lmlm-ph4pp go to archive.org. I have watched it several times with no issues.

[@dwhitman3092]

@@lmlm-ph4pp Also, check out 1949 The Heiress Set Fire to the Rain.... Done by Thomas Callahan. Film synopsis with Adele's song in the background. Even if not an Adele fan, this was another great synopsis of the film.

[@lmlm-ph4pp]

@@dwhitman3092 Thanks so much for sharing the link! :)

[@Ulander777]

I disagree with "Shoot ME Reviews: In the end catherine is moving on with her life.She is forgetting Morris and her loveless father. Her father said she could do only one thing well--needlepoint. She said "this is the last needle point she will do".I think she is breaking with her past and moving on to a new life.Catherine had to let Morris go. She tested him to see if he had developed any decent quality but saw he was the same as before. She could not have accepted him like that, even to end her loneliness and fulfill her longing.I think Catherine gained her freedom from Maurice, her independence and strength, but of course it came at a price of loneliness and broken heart, finally closure.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I'd argue that if she were moving on she'd have sold the house and moved out. Instead she cloisters herself inside and withdraws from the world, refusing any invitation to social interaction. BUT, there is room for interpretation, so if that's how you prefer to view it, farbeit from me to say I definitively know otherwise.

[@SL-wk6dp]

I agree with you. She made the choice not to me used by Morris

[@almohvn33]

Great review. I love this movie. I feel this, though. In the end, go for him, and at least have some love. I mean... in my mind he felt something for her.

[@cindychristian1700]

@@almohvn33 I liked the ending of "Washington Square" better because she actually had a real suitor who offered her marriage but she declined, her reason being she had nothing to gain! She had a real life with friends, teaching children and invitations to parties as well! When she rejected Morris she was doing so as a more mature woman with more than him as a choice! "The Heiress" is still a really great movie though!!! Olivia de Havilland was such a beautiful woman and she was so great in this role that she's so convincing as a "plain" and awkward woman!

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

@@happybkwrm The house represents her father's dominance over her life. By staying in it she ultimately embraces victimhood rather than asserting her individuality. If you believe that she 'enjoys' being isolated in her father's house and spending her life alone, then you're welcome to that interpretation. I just don't agree.

[@MegaMagicdog]

When I first saw this film on TCM, I was amazed! I also felt badly for Catherine ultimately. Yes, the ending is tragic in that a beautiful kind spirt was extinguished and replaced by cynicism and bitterness. I also thought it sad she wouldn't leave the square when offered to go to Newport! Maybe she wouldn't meet a suitor, but at least she would have been in different surrounding for a while. She essentially became akin to Miss Haversham ( from "Great Expectations") in which she encased herself at home and rejects the world at large. Her father was at fault for idolizing his late wife (it would have been amusing if it turned out she wasn't quite as perfect as he claimed) Morris was at fault for seeing her as a cash cow to fund his whims, and even that jerk at the dance is at fault! YES! He couldn't even be decent enough to return to her when he excused himself! He just danced with someone else! That hurts no matter how you slice it. When you're treated badly for too long, or people only want you for what you have and not the kind of person you are, that is a lonely life indeed.

[@historicarchives4841]

This movie is excellent. It feels very fresh even though it's more than 70 years old.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

Genuinely timeless.

[@melenatorr]

@@ShootMeMovieReviews If a story has truth and empathy, it doesn't matter how old it is.

[@justsayin1643]

Montgomery Clift was a brilliant actor. He played so many wonderful roles. I find it interesting how Olivia’s true beauty has been hidden wonderfully by her hairstyle and makeup.

[@ricardocantoral7672]

Clift was brilliant but this was one of his lesser efforts but that is no fault not his own. This role did not allow him to do anything truly special.

[@mawk541]

The first I have seen this film,never heard of it before.I already consider it the best movie I have ever seen.brilliant, a masterpiece .

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I felt the same way when I first saw it, which was in a proper theatre, and it had been introduced by a film scholar who was interested in Wyler. There was a Q&A afterward and some interesting discussion with the audience.

[@Jasper7182009]

After watching about 3 1/2 minutes of this commentary, I have to assert that in the beginning of the film Catherine does exhibit great insight and a sharp mind. Her comments about the other women at the committee and her comment in the carriage on the way to the party and then her comment to her Aunt as they’re sitting, right before Morris makes his introduction to them. Catherine has her father’s intelligent mind but she also has a sense of humor that is sharp but truthful.

[@johnnypastrana6727]

Like how the maid repeats the command: 'bolt it? Bolt the door Mariah'... 😂😂😂 Morris can always pawn those fancy cuff links Catherine gave him...so he is not penniless.

[@marymagdalene3004]

Still can't figure out why she gave him those cuff links? Like he was being rewarded for having been the biggest scoundrel out there. Just could not accept that this was a realistic thing to do.

[@sprague49]

The entire cast is superb but it's Sir Ralph Richardson's performance that draws me to watch The Heiress over and over. Every word, every phrase, every gesture is delivered with absolute perfection in this, his first Hollywood film. Younger viewers might not know that he, along with Laurence Olivier and John Gielgud were the three most acclaimed actors of the 20th century British stage.

[@annakowalska9935]

So sad to her but she did the right thing,Moris diserved it.He dissapointed her once and would do it again and again.Such a beautiful woman in outside,so proud and full of dignity.

[@nope_no_nunya.]

21:23 Favorite scene. That slicing remark, "You'll never know" sends chills.

[@lilybond6485]

It’s 22:23. I kept looking for that comment and it was one minute ahead.

[@ilovebarbra2]

It's the look in her eyes that makes it so chilling.

[@melenatorr]

@@ilovebarbra2 The way they both meet each other's eyes, and Dr. Sloper realizes that she is not her mother. She is him.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@melenatorr I like that analogy.

[@melenatorr]

@@ilovebarbra2 Thank you!

[@elainebmack]

Aunt Penniman is interesting. She knew, on some level, that Morris was out for Catherine's money, hence the comment about Catherine not "...a little more clever" in telling Morris that she intended to leave without getting her inheritance. I think Aunt Penniman wanted Morris in HER life too. She also comments on how Morris reminded her of her late husband, "...the same passionate nature..." Hmm... She kept trying to interject her presence in their lives, to the point of suggesting that she go with them on their elopement. HUH??? Morris was a user for sure. No one has commented on how his face changed when Catherine declared her independence from her father that night in the rain. Auntie was just as cruel and insensitive as Morris and Dr. Sloper. She even ignored Catherine's shock and displeasure at Morris's sudden reappearance.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I'd like to have spent some time talking about her character, but I wanted to keep the video length under control. I agree, she's a very interesting element in the story.

[@miladydewinter7770]

That must have tested the make-up artists to the limit in an attempt to make the beautiful Olivia de Havilland look "plain".

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

True enough. But I think she carries it off through her performance. She's able to present as meek and 'plain' in a way - but then part of the characterization is that Catherine thinks of herself as unappealing only because that's how her father sees her. The tragedy I've tried to point out here is that by the end of the film although she has transformed and becomes tough and assertive, she still sees herself that way and is incapable of accepting a compliment as anything other than insincere.

[@jessicalychee8376]

I watched this with my mom last night. She changed from a wide eyed trusting girl to an aware alert woman. When she invites him & then shuts all the lights. I kept saying “ma! It’s crazy that was 1949 and it’s 2021 & the struggles of crappy guys still remain”. I thought Olivia De Havilland was adorable through out the entire movie. But her outfit in the last scene was GORGEOUS! It showed more of her neck. She had dangly earrings. It appeared to be white or a light color. Such a good movie. I’m glad I watched it ☺️ 16:30 I was cheering her on!!!

[@christiansoldier77]

Jessica Lychee She became a cold hearted cynical untrusting person . It was a tragedy

[@jessicalychee8376]

@@christiansoldier77 Yup. I watched it as I said. The way her dad raised her also had a huge part in her being that way.

[@christiansoldier77]

@@jessicalychee8376 Yes it was a tragedy because as a viewer even though I can admire the new Catherine for being wiser, more confident and more dignified - I still mourn the loss of the old Catherine who was kind,sweet,gentle and capable of love. If she had gotten the love from at least one of the men in her life she would have been able to mix the best qualities of both versions of herself but instead she was abused by both men so she went from one extreme personality on one side to the other extreme personality on the other side never being a whole person so this is indeed a tragedy.

[@jessicalychee8376]

@@christiansoldier77 I agree. And for me, The real tragedy would have been if Catherine believed Morris the second time. I’m happy she was strong and aware. Not the same old “sweet” push over.

[@janesgems7]

It's strange but she reminds me a lot of Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights....both became hard after having their hearts broken. But there was some hope for Catherine at the end, whereas Heathcliff's heart was so badly broken it couldn't heal.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

Interesing you mention this. I've been thinking about doing a video on Wuthering Heights, and in the past I've made comparisons between the two stories. Whereas in The Heiress the heroine is damaged by two men, in Wuthering Heights it's more like the two men are damaged by the woman.

[@jenniferdonlin6627]

You're wrong. Morris is not wealthy when he returns to Catherine. He sees the opportunity for wealth, now that Dr. Slocum is out of the picture. And her rejection of Morris is indeed triumph. Can't you see the look on her face as she climbs that stairway. It's triumphant, a direct contrast to the other time she climbed the stairs defeated.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

? I'm aware Morris is not wealthy upon his return. He's obviously broke and hoping to reconnect with Catherine so that he might still have a shot at her fortune. EDIT - I think I might see the confusion. I said that Morris MAY have thought he'd make a fortune and come back to her, but that this is unlikely. In any event, no matter what he had planned, things obviously didn't work out for him in California.

[@vanessamantooth3042]

BOTH STRONG AND TORTURED, SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE! MAKING MY TSHIRT NOW" YES I CAN BE VERY CRUEL, I HAVE BEEN TAUGHT BY MASTERS!!

[@audie2574]

My favorite line from any (as well as my all-time favorite) movie, by any actress.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@audie2574 I agree ,said with such disdain for all those involved

[@christiansoldier77]

I only discovered Olivia maybe 5 or 6 years ago but she is by far my favorite actress of the old hollywood era

[@aleksandarvil5718]

This Movie plot: *_“Fool Me Once.“_*

[@mitchellkedrosky1770]

Miriam Hopkins is such an underrated actress. Her supporting role in this film is great. Everything about this movie is immaculate-- I've really been getting into Wyler's films. This is one of his best, along with The Letter and The Big Country. Such a diverse director.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I do regret not having 'room' in the way I wanted to present my video for talking more about Hopkins and her character, which are crucial in the story. Wyler is often overlooked as one of the greats because he didn't have such obvious 'trademark' techniques as some other directors, but his skill and thoughtfulness are evident in the outstanding work he did.

[@macc.1132]

He was successful in tackling many genres, that's for sure. Along with The Heiress, I think The Best Years of Our Lives, Roman Holiday and Dodsworth are outstanding. You really can't go wrong with The Letter (as you say), Ben-Hur, Mrs. Miniver, The Little Foxes or Dangerous, either. He excelled at adult drama without cheap sentiment.

[@lindaname9413]

You need to see "the best years of our LIves"

[@nutauf7587]

Watched this film a few days ago and having stopped thinking about it, a masterpiece in cinema and storytelling

[@studentoflife2899]

Who else could have done that great American story justice but Olivia.

[@sontheen]

I agree that Morris might have treated her quite well (even if he'd have done so only to protect what he had to lose). Also, when he comes back after his long absence, she feels he actually does love her, and it's what she thinks that counts. But she knows it's too late for her to accept him and live with herself. The betrayals of Morris and her father have taught her the meaning of Morris' song: "The joy of love lasts but a very short time. The pain of love lasts your whole life through, your whole life through." Poor woman.

[@Mrownica]

I am a man I was born in 1976 I saw Olivie de Havilland for the first time in the movie Captain Blood from 1935. Her appearance in the film was not only the appearance of an excellent actress but also an amazing beautiful girl when she was 19 years old she was young and beautiful actually hypnotized me You can it was possible to fall in love with her without memory at first sight. This film, due to her amazing beauty, not only spiritual, but also beauty, was deep in the mine mind. As soon as the news of her death appeared, I immediately remembered her actor creation in this film. Olivio died for the world I can only write rest in peace for me and for many other fans who love your by film creations you will live forever and you will always remain in our memory Robert from Poland

[@dwhitman3092]

Enjoyed your post!

[@Mrownica]

@@dwhitman3092 Thank you

[@kaneki-ken96]

Olivia de Havilland: QUEEN OF HOLLYWOOD

[@gloriadodds7102]

brilliant performance by Olivia for that era of acting. Wyler's direction allowed her full reign

[@chrissieelizabethturner7065]

Although I see the confidence in Catherine at the end of the movie, I see her eventually becoming like her father. Kind of cold. The way she treated Maria when she only complemented her on her gown. I see what her father had tried to do for Catherine, trying to make her see that Morris was not for her, although he approached it totally wrong.

[@arhondasmith967]

I agree l do think that coldness rubbed off on her, and that doesn't shake off easily, such a Greek tragedy.

[@garrywood5345]

A MASTERPIECE of a Film. They Just don't make them like this anymore. De Havilland Could Never have imagined she would live in The year 2020..Great Film.

[@LaDivinaLover]

I don’t know my favourite quote from her was “I would prefer to live forever in perfect health, but if I must at some time leave this life, I would like to do so ensconced on a chaise longue, perfumed, wearing a velvet robe and pearl earrings, with a flute of champagne beside me and having just discovered the answer to the last problem in a British cryptic crossword." I get the sense she knew she’d live a long a life.

[@angelacarleton9575]

Unfortunately, when a woman sees nothing but abandonment issues it is hard to continue to believe in that person over and over again. There is no more "TRUST" which once there was and no longer can be!

[@thejma724]

Abandonment issues? Red flag for Bordeline Personality Disorder…Great movie and excellent acting by Ms De Havilland

[@toniah93]

I love this movie and can identify with it, and I believe it was the tragedy of a tortured soul that evolved into a strong women

[@jimmieduncan7386]

I love this movie it is truly the best this is a movie that is a must have in your movie collection. It is a five star movie. Please if you don't have this movie please please please get it and give it a try and you won't be disappointed, and I love the ending truly HARDCORE!!!!!!! She handled it.

[@laurenceesposito3393]

Aaron Copland received an Oscar for his brilliant score. He did not write "Plaisir d'amour" and had no intentions of using it in his score and was so angered that it was used that he decided not to ever compose for film again. It was either the producer's or the director's decision and was tacked on to the opening credits without Copland's knowledge. He wasn't asked at all. Seeing the entire film, the song does not fit for the opening credits, certainly. This is one superb film, though, with Olivia de Havilland and Ralph Richardson giving outstanding performances. As far as your question of triumphant or tragedy, I believe it is both. She will never marry again, certainly - she has been hardened by both men. "Taught by masters." It is rewarding for the character and for us when she turns on her father - telling him that he couldn't love her. I don't know if you have noticed, but Olivia de Havilland also lowers her voice when she says to her father, "What a thing to say to me," after he makes the comment that she "embroiders neatly." Also, I sense that her character changes after this line is spoken. Thank you, also, to William Wyler. Very well done film. I must have seen it over ten times. Gripping.

[@ilovebarbra2]

I disagree with that assessment ,at the end when she is walking up the stairs she is happy with what she's done, taken control of her self ,she didn't settle. After watching this movie last night,4/9/2021 I feel that she would go on and go out and mingle and marry the man of her choosing ,for love, she is capable as we saw ,but careful. She wouldn't stay a lonely spinster.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

I get that people like to think so. I am attempting to offer an alternative view that illustrates that the story has greater nuance than most consider. Again, I remind you that the movie ends with her, five years after rejecting Morris, still refusing to ever leave her house. She's certainly justified in her position, but it's clear to me she does not go on to simply marry someone else. At best, she spends her life contentedly alone, and at worst, she's allowed men to shape her attitudes and life in a direction not in her best interests.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@ShootMeMovieReviews I think "marry" may be too cheery a word ,but I don't feel that she would just lock herself up in that house for the rest of her life ,not since she stopped embroidering, and dumped the man she once loved. She'll be hard and maybe alone for the rest of her life but she'll go on and have a life for herself, a life lived alone can still be a happy life, and she won't be lonely.

[@ilovebarbra2]

Also when she gets to the top of the stairs she has the beginnings of a quiet smile as though she is sure of herself in the decision she's made ,a bit scared too, that's why not a full smile....yet. But in movies like this there is no after, that's why conjecture is great, everyone has a different idea of what happens to her ,I think depending on happenings in our own lives and how we deal with them.

[@ShootMeMovieReviews]

@@ilovebarbra2 Sure, that's possible.

[@ilovebarbra2]

@@ShootMeMovieReviews As I read somewhere before "We only accept the love we think we deserve". That is Catherine's issue ,her father destroyed that kind of love for her but she is not loveless ,her cousin loves her and that little girl that hugs her loves her too ,we only need to have one person show us love to know we are loved. And that is always enough.

[@orlandocordova4381]

Thanks for this posting! A film favorite with it's Copland score!

[@georg_couch]

I think this review is wonderful and it captures the spirit of the film. It also points out the tragedy of Catherine: she refuses to fall victim to deception, but at the very same time, becomes cruel and devoid of any faith, love or chance at a happy life. I don't think the ending is liberating. It delivers justice to Clift's character but shows us the shadow of a person Catherine has grown to be. Her cynicism and loneliness is not by virtue of how she (deservedly) treats Clift, but by the look in her eyes as she ascends the stairs. De Havilland is astounding. Chilling.

[@selwynandrews9665]

I love this film, saw it on TV late one night as a teenager. It left a mark!

[@nelliethursday1812]

Best movie ending ever

[@chrissieelizabethturner7065]

I had read that Olivia DeHavilland had the suitcase weighted down with heavy books the first time Morris abandoned her so that she had that tired and weary look when she walked up the stairs.

[@joetursi9573]

A wonderful cast. All were brilliant.

[@tomp2990]

Fab - seamless, wonderfully selected moments - perfectly judged analysis and commentary - persuasive yet not stifling the film's multi-layered brilliance as befits Henry James' classic