W. Somerset Maugham's play was translated to the big screen by Casablanca's main scribe, Howard Koch, and while the story still retains classic film noir elements of adultery, murder, and guilt, "The Letter" also preserves a depiction of the English that's amusingly melodramatic: in spite of the emotional turmoil and mortal danger, Bette Davis (with an affected snotty accent) and weak-willed hubby Herbert Marshall remain tightly reserved; yet these veneers of wily restraint help maintain audience suspicion that every character seems to harbor a dark secret, best kept buried.

“The Letter” was nominated for seven Oscars, and Warner Bros has added some intriguing bonus materials that should delight fans of vintage radio shows. During the Forties, radio functioned as a secondary exploitation route after a film had run its original theatrical engagements. A precursor to network TV airings (with commercials and slight edits for time), hit movies were condensed into hour-long radio shows, with original stars sometimes reprising their roles alongside up-and-coming talent. Two programs - from 1941 and 1944 - are included, with Bette Davis and Herbert Marshall as leads, and Cecil B. DeMille emceeing the broadcasts.

Also of interest is an alternate ending, which features slightly longer dialogue exchanges, different takes, and a modified closing shot that fixates on a recurrent knitting motif (arguably symbolizing the lost innocence of the Davis-Marshall marriage and the demise of perfect, domesticated wife).

Warner Bros' transfer is first rate, using a nice print with excellent blacks and grains, and a solid mono sound mix, with Max Steiner's grand score carpeting much of the film.

© 2005 Mark R. Hasan