Two women who run a chicken farm together live a serene life with the exception of a pesky fox who preys on their livestock, but their harmony is disrupted when a metaphorical fox, in the form of a dashing young man, starts to prey on the ladies themselves in this highly symbolic melodrama. Sandy Dennis and Keir Dullea play the more outspoken woman and young man respectively, but while a less prolific star, Anne Heywood delivers the best performance as the more reserved woman (justly earning a Golden Globe nomination). Dennis has strong moments too, but much of her performance consists of whining whereas Heywood has many great opportunities to let her face convey all as she silently listens to the others argue. And arguments certainly arise as Dullea wants to marry Heywood, who Dennis is clearly in love with. It is also clear that her love is not reciprocated, but the bond between them is undeniable. Intriguing as this might sound, the film is undone by a bizarre ending in which Dennis essentially commits suicide by allowing a tree to be lopped on top of her (!). This ending provides some nasty overtones too with the implication that the others are better off for it, and it is hard to agree with the notion that Heywood needs a man to make her life complete. The pacing is also little off here. The film is still worth a look though for the very unusual set- up (young women choosing to live a farming life), Lalo Schifrin's Oscar nominated score that effectively varies from enchanting to atmospheric and Heywood's performance. The overall tale is just not for all tastes.