The Constant Nymph (DVD)

Unavailable for over sixty years, the lost classic returns at last. For many decades, the closest people could come to experiencing this timeless tale of love, tragedy and inspiration was through Erich Wolfgang Korngold's rousing, luscious and lauded score - but no more! Now, all can open their hearts to the Constant Nymph. Joan Fontaine delivers one of her finest performances playing Tessa, a teenaged free spirit locked in battle with her complicated, sophisticated cousin Florence (Alexis Smith) over the love of Lewis (Charles Boyer), an impoverished, gifted composer. Lewis is married to Florence, but young Tessa loves Lewis so completely he finds himself drawn to her more and more. Tessa is soon transformed, first into Lewis' muse, and then into something more; while Florence's jealousies cage her in a competition with a child she can't hope to win. Peter Lorre adds to the magic, shining in a rare, sympathetic supporting role.

Starring: Charles Boyer, Joan Fontaine, Alexis Smith, Brenda Marshall, Charles Coburn, Peter Lorre, Edward Ciannelli, Jeanine Crispin, Doris Lloyd, Joan Blair, Andre Charlot, Dame May Whitty, Joyce Reynolds, Jean Muir, Montagu Love, Richard Ryan, Crauford Kent, Marcel Dalio, Clemence Groves, Louise Brien, Geoffrey Steele, George Kirby, Charles Irwin, Donald Stuart, Jean Ransome, Max Rabinowitz, David Clyde, Mildred Brook, Eric Mayne, Brandon Hurst

Director: Henry Blanke