This film, based on the Leo Tolstoy story 'Resurrection,' is a Samuel Goldwyn production. That means a big budget, excellent stars, a thoughtful script and Gregg Toland's eye behind the camera. Although it takes awhile for the story to get underway, the playful countryside scenes involving the characters of Fredric March and Anna Sten do well to help establish the atmosphere of Russia in the beginning. Set against this backdrop, their love relationship develops despite obstacles in attitude and social class.
Of course, the lovers get separated: he goes on to a promising future among the elite; and she, after having lost his illegitimate son, is forced to take desperate measures to stay alive. These actions cause her to be put on trial where he happens to be serving on the jury.
Not wanting to spoil the outcome of the plot, let's just suffice it to say that both of them are challenged to re-examine past ideals as they begin to fall in love all over again. It's one of those tales that plays on an epic scale, but the dialogue is sharp and gives us plenty to think about as the story moves toward its logical and fateful conclusion.
Of course, the lovers get separated: he goes on to a promising future among the elite; and she, after having lost his illegitimate son, is forced to take desperate measures to stay alive. These actions cause her to be put on trial where he happens to be serving on the jury.
Not wanting to spoil the outcome of the plot, let's just suffice it to say that both of them are challenged to re-examine past ideals as they begin to fall in love all over again. It's one of those tales that plays on an epic scale, but the dialogue is sharp and gives us plenty to think about as the story moves toward its logical and fateful conclusion.