“A classic…” Empire ★★★★
One of the undisputed classics of Hollywood’s Golden Age, Irving Rapper’s 1942 romantic drama NOW, VOYAGER, stars the indomitable Bette Davis in an Oscar-nominated performance that is one of the greatest of her career. Back on the big screen from 6 August 2021, it will be re-released in selected cinemas UK-wide.
Charlotte Vale (Davis), a troubled young woman who has been subjected to years of emotional abuse at the hands of her domineering mother, is treated at a Vermont hospital by kindly psychiatrist Dr Jaquith (Davis’ favourite co-star, Claude Rains). Before returning home Charlotte takes a cruise and falls for a married man (Henreid). At the end of the voyage, he must return to his jealous and cruel wife and she must be reunited with her mother – leaving both of them unclear as to whether they can ever be happy. The film’s depiction of mental health issues and the treatment available is remarkably enlightened for its time, and with Max Steiner’s glorious Oscar-winning score and great performances all round, Now, Voyager remains one of the standouts of Hollywood’s golden age.
