Watch The Letter

The Letter is a 1940 American film noir directed by William Wyler, starring Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, and James Stephenson. The movie is based on a play of the same name by W. Somerset Maugham. The story is set in a rubber plantation in British Malaya during the 1930s. The plantation owner, Robert Crosbie (Herbert Marshall), is a successful businessman who is married to Leslie Crosbie (Bette Davis). Leslie is a sophisticated and charming woman, but she is also bored and restless in her marriage. Leslie begins an affair with Geoff Hammond (David Newell), a man who works on the plantation.

One night, Geoff visits Leslie at her bungalow while Robert is away on business. When Geoff tries to leave, Leslie shoots him multiple times and kills him. She then comes up with a story that Geoff tried to rape her, and Robert believes her and agrees to help her cover up the crime.

However, at the trial, the prosecution discovers evidence that contradicts Leslie's story. A letter from Geoff to Leslie is found, in which he writes that he knows she is married and he doesn't want to cause any trouble. The letter suggests that Leslie was in fact the one who pursued Geoff. The case falls apart and Leslie is found guilty of murder.

The Letter is an intense and suspenseful film that explores themes of adultery, betrayal, and justice. Bette Davis delivers a powerful and complex performance as Leslie, who is both sympathetic and despicable. Her character's motivations and actions are constantly in question, making her a riveting protagonist. The film also features strong supporting performances by Herbert Marshall as Robert, Leslie's loyal husband, and James Stephenson as Howard Joyce, Leslie's defense attorney.

Director William Wyler manages to create a tense and atmospheric film, using cinematic techniques such as dramatic lighting and tight close-ups to heighten the drama. The Letter is also notable for its portrayal of colonialism and racial tensions in 1930s Malaya, which adds an additional layer of complexity to the story.

Overall, The Letter is a classic film noir that has stood the test of time. It is a must-see for fans of the genre, as well as for anyone interested in 1940s Hollywood cinema.

The Letter is a 1940 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.