The entire film rests on Martine Carol, and I'm afraid she just isn't the girl for me. I can't imagine anyone wanting to die for her, or even suffer a little. Ustinov is wonderful, the camerawork and choreography are dizzyingly effective, and the concept of the film holds great potential. I'm a fan of Ophuls and think his films are remarkable. But
I have the same problem with Jeanne Moreau. Both Carol and Moreau are supposed to be devastating, and they are simply not up to the job. (At least Moreau smiles every now and again.)
Review of Lola Montès
