Deception
A true favourite.
The Flicks part:
Deception is sort of an offbeat film. I would say this a real favourite of mine. Released in 1946, this film noir starring Bette Davis, Paul Henreid, and Claude Rains, directed by Irving Rapper contains mystery, crime, romance, and deceit (of course). The three actors have also worked together in the successful Now, Voyager from 1942, which is another one of my favourite films that always grabs me, but I digress. Back to Deception. I love the music in this film. It’s classical with lots of intrigue and tension resounding throughout several scenes. Gives me chills, which I guess goes along with film noir and especially this movie.
In a nutshell, Cellist Karel Novak (Paul Henreid) was believed to have died during the war, making his unexpected return a shock to his lover Christine Radcliffe (Bette Davis). She is elated by his survival, but their reunion is uneasy as he suspects she may have fallen in love with someone else. Despite this, they hastily marry to start anew. At their wedding, Composer Alexander Hollenius (Claude Rains) unveils possessive behavior, causing Karel to question if he is the man who may have been the source behind Christine’s lavish lifestyle during their time apart.
Revealing much more will give away the best parts of this movie. Let’s just say that there is plenty to keep you glued to Deception. The film is definitely worth watching. Bette Davis and Claude Rains are fabulous in this movie. I am a big fan of Paul Henreid and watching him in any of his movies, you begin to see subtle, repetitive nuances (such as in Casablanca, Now Voyager, and others) which make his films so absorbing.
The Forks part:
The perfect food pairing for watching this film would be a sophisticated snack plate with a Pinot Noir glass of wine. In the movie, Hollenius ordered a Vosne-Romanée wine during a dinner scene. After looking into this wine, I found it to be a very expensive vintage French wine, but as it is made entirely from the Pinot Noir grape, I would suggest a simple Pinot Noir wine.
Create a delicious snack plate featuring herb crackers, goat cheese, pear, and salami. The herb crackers have just the right level of saltiness. The creamy goat cheese coats your tongue and allows the other flavors to linger. Pear slices are refreshing and add a touch of brightness. And the saltiness of the salami elevates every element of this plate creating the perfect combination.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this film noir so please feel free to comment!
Bon Appetit!
...Jill
Yes, a strange movie, but the leads are stellar. I always had a massive crush on Paul Henreid, so it’s a delight to rest your eyes on his handsome face. Claude Rains (married six times! Never won an Oscar!) is his magnificent self. The restaurant scene where he purposely unnerves Paul Henreid before his big performance unnerves me, too! I become nervous just thinking about it. Good movie with a marvelous trio.