Here at the Dukes, we love to give the classics another chance to be seen in their full cinematic glory. This time, we’re revisiting Douglas Sirk’s All That Heavens Allows (1955). Cary (Jane Wyman), a well-to-do widow, finds love again with younger gardener Ron (Rock Hudson). Cary runs in a rich social circle of gossipers, and Ron doesn’t give a damn what anyone thinks. Smitten, Cary shuns the advances of older gentlemen (the kind who grab her wrists and offer her ‘companionship’) – but for refusing to accept her social death and settle into a dull, passionless life, she attracts plenty of disapproval. 

While it’s ranked at no. 11 on the Guardian’s list of the best romantic films of all time, this isn’t exactly a sweeping romance. It avoids melodramatic clichés of excessive emotion and impulsive decisions and presents a more grounded, heart-wrenching portrayal of navigating love in a hostile society. Wyman’s mesmerizing performance underpins the whole story. The heavy and silent grief she demonstrates to her daughter when she realizes she’s made a mistake is the most powerful punch. 

By today’s standards, it’s difficult to see why Cary’s circle are so judgmental about the age gap when Hudson was only eight years younger than Wyman. They had even played love interests in another Sirk film, Magnificent Obsession, the previous year (explaining their easy chemistry). But Sirk’s social commentary reveals the double standards in American society and highlights the absurdity of a hypercritical, conformist culture. Of course, it evades exploring these issues in-depth, but the nuance is evident in Wyman’s performance (and I guess Rock Hudson’s pretty alright, too...) 

One of Sirk’s greatest triumphs, the director’s colourful visual style and strong voice lends the film both splendour and depth. Whether it’s an old favourite or a new find, it’s definitely worth catching All That Heaven Allows on the big screen!

Written by Jodie Passey

Catch this successful romantic melodrama on 30th November & 3rd December.

Book Your Tickets Here!

This screening is part of our Snow Programme. Click here to see what else is on this Christmas!