The Dark Mirror (1946): Olivia de Havilland’s Dual Triumph
In “The Dark Mirror” (1946), director Robert Siodmak and screenwriter Nunnally Johnson weave a captivating tale of intrigue, psychiatry, and the enigmatic world of identical twins. This psychological thriller delves into themes that fascinated 1940s Hollywood, especially the concept of the double, creating a tense and atmospheric film experience.
Plot Overview:
The story begins with the murder of a doctor, seemingly an open-and-shut case for the police. However, the investigation hits a snag when three witnesses identify a woman fleeing the scene, while three others place the same woman miles away. The twist? The suspects are identical twins, Terry and Ruth Collins, both played masterfully by Olivia de Havilland. As the twins refuse to cooperate, the police are stumped, unable to indict without knowing which sister committed the crime.
Characters and Performances:
Thomas Mitchell shines as Detective-Lieutenant Stevenson, who despises the notion of a perfect crime. He enlists the help of psychologist Dr. Scott Elliott, portrayed by Lew Ayres, an expert on twins. Dr. Elliott’s psychological expertise becomes crucial as he studies the twins, soon realizing one is dangerously insane. The tension escalates as he falls for one of the sisters, complicating matters further.
Olivia de Havilland’s Dual Role:
De Havilland delivers a subtle yet powerful performance, distinguishing the twins with nuanced differences that keep the audience guessing until the very end. Her portrayal is a testament to her acting prowess, as she navigates the complexities of playing both the seemingly sweet and potentially murderous sister.
Directorial Style and Script:
Siodmak, known for his stylish direction, brings a refined touch to “The Dark Mirror.” While not as visually extravagant as some of his other works, the film maintains a gripping and eerie atmosphere. Johnson’s script, rich with mid-20th-century psychiatric concepts, adds layers of intrigue and suspense. The inclusion of Rorschach ink-blot tests and polygraph examinations highlights the era’s fascination with psychological analysis, adding an element of period charm to the film.
Symbolism and Themes:
Mirrors play a significant symbolic role, reflecting the duality and hidden depths of the twins’ personalities. The film’s opening and closing scenes bookend the narrative with mirror imagery, reinforcing the theme of duality and deception.
“The Dark Mirror” is a riveting blend of psychological thriller and crime melodrama, offering a compelling story and a stellar performance by Olivia de Havilland. While it may not be a quintessential film noir, its intricate plot and atmospheric direction make it a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood thrillers. With its mix of madness, murder, and psychiatry, “The Dark Mirror” remains an engaging and entertaining film. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a good psychological mystery.