Two fine actors who were not served by the movies as well as they should have been are featured in this low-key drama. At least in Betty Field's case it seems it was by her own choice that she did not go further in films since she preferred the stage but Zachary Scott probably due to his rather angular looks and his skill at playing disreputable cads was typed in that capacity. Here however he plays a decent, honorable working farmer giving a fine performance matched every step of the way by Betty. Renoir's direction is subdued but finely judged. The whole picture is a worthwhile view for those who enjoy serious family dramas with accomplished actors.
Review of The Southerner
