Story
Directed by William Dieterle, this 1948 film is a romantic fantasy adapted from the novella of the same name by Robert Nathan. The movie stars Joseph Cotten as Eben Adams, a struggling artist in Depression-era New York, who becomes inspired and enchanted by a mysterious young girl named Jennie Appleton, played by Jennifer Jones. As he continues to meet Jennie over time, he realizes that she seems to be aging rapidly and has an ethereal quality. These encounters significantly influence his work and lead him down a path of profound love and discovery.
William Dieterle, the director, was a German-American filmmaker known for his diverse range of works, including "The Devil and Daniel Webster" (1941) and the highly acclaimed "The Life of Emile Zola" (1937), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Dieterle’s ability to blend realism with fantasy and his knack for creating atmospheric and visually captivating scenes are evident in this film. His collaboration with cinematographer Joseph H. August also brought out the poetic and hauntingly beautiful sequences, adding depth to the storytelling.
The film also features a notable supporting cast, including Ethel Barrymore, Lillian Gish, and Cecil Kellaway, each adding their own gravitas to the story. Although it didn’t win major awards upon release, the movie did garner critical acclaim for its unique narrative and visual style. Jennifer Jones received praise for her captivating portrayal of Jennie, which added a timeless and haunting quality to the character. The film has since gained a cult following for its heartfelt and mystical exploration of love, time, and artistic inspiration.
