My Cousin Rachel

Henry Koster's 1952 film is adapted from Daphne du Maurier's novel. Philip learns that Ambrose, the cousin who raised him, has died in strange circumstances in Italy, having written in his last letters that he was afraid of his wife Rachel. Philip prepares his revenge, but when Rachel comes to England and stays in the house his mind changes and he becomes attached to her. One question hangs over the whole film: is Rachel a murderer, or does Philip's suspicion come out of his own jealousy. The story keeps that uncertainty to the end and leaves the viewer to decide. Olivia de Havilland plays the character so that she can be read as both innocent and calculating. It was Richard Burton's first significant Hollywood role. Who it's for: viewers who like gothic mystery and classic adaptation. Who it's not for: anyone expecting a definite resolution; the film leaves the question open.