Paul Henreid and Lizabeth Scott in Stolen Face (1952, directed by Terence Fisher). This film has a phenomenal plot and a perfect cast to see it through. A plastic surgeon has his heart broken by a beautiful woman. He changes a criminal’s face to look like the one who got away. It does NOT go well.
This film proves a couple of things I’ve always preached…
- Paul Henreid should be a household name – right up there with Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, James Stewart, Henry Fonda, and Clark Gable. He had an onscreen presence on par with anyone and was simply a flawless actor. He BECAME whatever character he was playing to the extent he made everything appear effortless. He was never “acting” when you watch him.. he simply was being the character!
- Paul Henreid was one of the most generous actor EVER (George Brent and Melvyn Douglas also come to mind). He gave his leading lady, as well as other co-stars, room to shine. He never tried to upstage anyone with unnecessary expressions or movements. As I say, he did this with all co-stars but I notice it the most with his leading ladies – a quality I absolutely love and admire.
- Lizabeth Scott, also, should be a household name. She was as beautiful and talented as any actress. She may not be better known for a few reasons – all of her films aren’t shown as often as other films. Also, she wasn’t in the headlines for bad behavior or scandalous doings. The rebels always got the most publicity it seems… and truth be told, some things never change.
- Old Hollywood is where the most deliciously original and creative storylines and plots can be found!
Stolen Face is (in some areas anyway!) available on Prime Video – it currently says it isn’t available in my “area,” but maybe you’ll have better luck!