The suspense is almost unbearable…|Sep. 30, 1948|United Kingdom|96 Min.|n/A
Genre: Drama;Thriller
Description: The Fallen Idol (1948) is a captivating film that explores complex relationships and moral dilemmas. The story centers around Philippe, the young son of a diplomat living in London, who deeply admires his father’s butler, Baines. To entertain Philippe during his father’s frequent absences, Baines fabricates tales of his heroic adventures in Africa, claiming to have faced danger and conquered lions. In reality, Baines has never traveled to Africa and is trapped in a loveless marriage with his wife, the family’s housekeeper. He is also secretly involved in an affair with Julie, a young secretary.
One day, Philippe follows Baines to a café, where he meets Julie. She pressures Baines to leave his wife so they can be together, but Philippe remains oblivious to the details. Baines convinces Philippe that Julie is his niece and asks him to keep the meeting a secret from Mrs. Baines. Later, Philippe is scolded by Mrs. Baines for playing on a window ledge, and she grows suspicious of her husband’s activities.
The next day, Baines takes Philippe to the London Zoo, where Julie joins them. They return home for dinner, believing Mrs. Baines is away. However, Philippe discovers a telegram announcing her early return. That evening, Mrs. Baines unexpectedly arrives home and confronts her husband, leading to a heated argument. As tensions escalate, Mrs. Baines accuses Baines of infidelity and storms onto a staircase landing with an unguarded window, setting the stage for a dramatic turn of events.
Cast director: Guy Hamilton
Cast actor: Ralph Richardson, Michèle Morgan, Sonia Dresdel, Bobby Henrey, Denis O’Dea, Jack Hawkins, Walter Fitzgerald, Dandy Nichols, Joan Young, Karl Stepanek
Original name: The Fallen Idol