An insecure diplomat becomes jealous of his son's friendship with their Spanish gardener. As his feelings grow out of control, he takes drastic steps to put an end to their relationship - but his foolhardy actions lead to tragedy. Drama based on the novel by AJ Cronin, with Dirk Bogarde, Michael Hordern, Jon Whiteley, Cyril Cusack and Geoffrey Keen
Dirk Bogarde posted notice that he was much more than Rank's "Mr Charm" with this brooding drama adapted from the novel by AJ Cronin. Although it was supposed to be buried safely beneath the surface, the film's homosexual subtext is clearly detectable, as diplomat Michael Hordern comes to resent his young son (Jon Whiteley) spending time with gardener Bogarde. Thanks to Christopher Challis's sultry cinematography, director Philip Leacock is able to convey the rising emotional temperature of the action. However, it's Hordern's wonderful portrayal of repression that really holds the piece together.
| role | name |
|---|---|
| Jose | Dirk Bogarde |
| Nicholas Brande | Jon Whiteley |
| Harrington Brande | Michael Hordern |
| Garcia | Cyril Cusack |
| Maria | Maureen Swanson |
| Robert Burton | Lyndon Brook |
| Carol Burton | Josephine Griffin |
| Leighton Bailey | Bernard Lee |
| Magdalena | Rosalie Crutchley |
| Jose's mother | Ina De La Haye |
| Dr Harvey | Geoffrey Keen |
| role | name |
|---|---|
| Director | Philip Leacock |
