Watch Payment on Demand

Payment on Demand is a 1951 drama film starring Bette Davis, Barry Sullivan, and Jane Cowl. Directed by Curtis Bernhardt, the movie tells the story of a successful and wealthy middle-aged couple, Joyce and David Ramsey, whose marriage begins to crumble after 20 years together due to financial problems and infidelity. The film opens with Joyce Ramsey being shown the door by her husband's secretary after having stormed into her husband's office seeking a confrontation. Joyce's husband, David, is a successful and wealthy businessman, but he seems to have lost interest in his marriage, and their relationship has grown cold over time. After finding out that David has had an affair, Joyce decides to divorce him, demanding a large alimony payment that will allow her to maintain her lifestyle.

As the two navigate the divorce proceedings, they must also deal with their daughter, Tina, who is caught in the middle of their parental dispute. Torn between her loyalty to her father and her affection for her mother, Tina finds herself caught up in a bitter struggle that threatens to tear the family apart.

The movie deals with themes of love, betrayal, and the cost of success. Davis gives a masterful performance as Joyce Ramsey, portraying her as a strong and independent woman who is determined to get what she wants. Sullivan, meanwhile, is convincing as David Ramsey, who is torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire for success.

The film was shot in black and white, and the cinematography by Joseph A. Valentine lends a sense of melancholy to the proceedings. The sets and costumes are typical of the era, but they add to the overall sense of the film.

One of the more interesting aspects of the film is the way in which it deals with the issue of gender roles. At the time it was made, divorce was still a taboo subject, and Payment on Demand is one of the few films of the era that tackled the subject head-on. It takes a nuanced and complex approach to the issue, and it remains relevant more than 70 years later.

Overall, Payment on Demand is a gripping and emotional drama that makes the most of its talented cast. It is a classic Hollywood film that deals with timeless themes and remains a powerful piece of filmmaking.

Payment on Demand is a 1951 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.