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Secret People is a 1952 British drama film directed by Thorold Dickinson and produced by Sidney Cole. The movie stars Valentina Cortese, Serge Reggiani, and Charles Goldner in leading roles. The storyline of the film explores the struggle of two exiled sisters who become embroiled in a revolution, seeking vengeance against those who killed their parents.

The movie begins with a young Italian actress Maria Brentano (Valentina Cortese) traveling to London to perform in a tour organized by her agent Charlie Mason (Roland Culver). Maria's sister Nora (Guzman Chiesa), who is also an actress, had left her and their family in Italy to follow her dreams of becoming successful in London. When Maria arrives in London, she is devastated to learn that her sister Nora is no longer alive, and that she died in an airplane accident.

In the aftermath of Nora's death, Maria meets a man named Louis (Serge Reggiani), who shares his apartment with her. Louis is suspicious, fearful, and often irritable with Maria's revelations about her past. Maria soon learns that Louis used to be a revolutionary in his home country, but he is now living anonymously in London. Slowly, Maria discovers that Nora had become involved with the same group, and Louis has been operating a safe house for the freedom fighters.

Maria reconnects with Nora after discovering a hidden suitcase that contains a letter from her sister. She reads the letter and discovers that Nora was heavily involved in the underground movement, and was protecting a man named Pietro, who was in danger of being killed by the government. Maria knows that Nora's untimely death was not an accident, but a planned assassination. She decides to take up her sister's cause and vows to seek revenge against those who killed her sister and her parents.

Maria gets involved with the underground and becomes a part of the revolution to bring freedom to her home country. She meets up with Pietro and other underground members, including Paul (Charles Goldner), one of the leaders. Paul immediately takes an interest in Maria, and they develop a relationship. But tensions emerge, and Maria finds herself navigating treacherous situations, where she must use her wit and charm to survive.

The film has a compelling plot, with a strong and determined female protagonist, fighting for justice against oppressive regimes. The story is emotional, with some powerful scenes that convey the horrors of war and oppression. The movie's themes explore the impact of violence and revolution on ordinary people, and the consequences of seeking revenge. The characters are well-rounded, displaying their motivations and flaws, adding depth to the story. The audience can understand the characters and their actions, and empathize with their struggles.

Secret People is also notable for its cinematography, which captures London's dark alleys and seedy underbelly, as well as the luxurious mansions of the wealthy. The scenes of the revolution are especially poignant, with sharp contrasts of light and dark, and shot with striking close-ups that highlight the actors' emotions.

Overall, Secret People is an excellent movie, with a gripping plot, unforgettable characters, and stunning visuals. The film's themes of political upheaval, corruption, and revenge still resonate today, making it a classic of British cinema.