“The Bigamist” is a 1953 film noir directed by and starring Ida Lupino. It tells the story of a man leading a double life as a result of his involvement in two marriages.
The film follows Harry Graham, portrayed by Edmond O’Brien, a traveling salesman who is married to two women simultaneously. In San Francisco, he is married to Phyllis, played by Joan Fontaine, and they run a successful business together. However, while on a business trip to Los Angeles, Harry meets and falls in love with another woman, Eve, portrayed by Ida Lupino.
As Harry becomes more deeply involved with Eve, he faces a moral and emotional struggle. He desperately tries to maintain his double life, navigating the complexities of his relationships with both wives and attempting to protect his secret from being discovered.
“The Bigamist” explores the themes of infidelity, deception, and the consequences of living a duplicitous life. It delves into the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by Harry as he tries to reconcile his conflicting desires and loyalties.
The film offers a nuanced portrayal of the characters involved, depicting their vulnerabilities and the complexities of their relationships. It presents sympathetic portrayals of all parties involved, highlighting the human complexities and flaws that lead them into their respective situations.
Ida Lupino’s direction brings a compassionate and introspective approach to the subject matter, exploring the emotional and psychological dimensions of the characters. The film avoids simple moral judgments and instead focuses on the internal struggles and complexities of its protagonist.
Overall, “The Bigamist” is a thought-provoking film that delves into the depths of human relationships and the consequences of deceit. It showcases Lupino’s talent as both a director and an actress and presents a nuanced exploration of the complexities of love, loyalty, and the choices we make.
Directors:
Ida Lupino
Writer:
Collier Young, Lawrence B. Marcus, Lou Schor
Stars:
Joan Fontaine, Ida Lupino, Edmund Gwenn
