Watch The Devil Is a Woman

The Devil Is a Woman is a 1935 romantic drama film directed by Josef von Sternberg, which tells the story of a young man named Antonio Galvan who falls in love with a woman named Concha Perez, also known as La Belle Diabla (The Beautiful Devil), portrayed by Marlene Dietrich. The film is set in 19th-century Spain during the carnival season.

The story is told through a series of flashbacks as Antonio recounts his relationship with Concha to his friend Don Pasqual. Antonio first meets Concha at a café and is immediately drawn to her beauty and charm. However, Concha is a manipulative and heartless woman who enjoys playing with men's affections. She leads Antonio on a wild goose chase through the streets of Seville, making him fall deeper in love with her.

As their relationship progresses, Concha's true motives become clear. She has been using Antonio to make her former lover, Captain Don Pasqual Costelar (Lionel Atwill), jealous. Don Pasqual is a wealthy and powerful man who is determined to win Concha back, even though she has little interest in him.

Throughout the film, there are several subplots that add depth to the story. One involves Antonio's friend, Don Francisco (Edward Everett Horton), a wealthy aristocrat, who is also in love with Concha. Another subplot involves the Spanish government's attempt to ban carnival celebrations, which serves as a metaphor for Concha's forbidden allure.

The Devil Is a Woman is a visually stunning film, with elaborate costumes and intricate set designs. Marlene Dietrich's portrayal of Concha is seductive and captivating, as she effortlessly portrays a complex character who is both alluring and dangerous. Lionel Atwill is equally compelling as the jealous and possessive Don Pasqual, while Edward Everett Horton provides comedic relief in his role as the bumbling Don Francisco.

The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its artistry and others criticizing its overly melodramatic plot. However, over time, The Devil Is a Woman has become a cult classic, with many citing it as among Marlene Dietrich's best performances.

Overall, The Devil Is a Woman is a beautifully crafted film that explores themes of desire, jealousy, and betrayal. Its intricate plot and memorable performances make it a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.