The Upturned Glass (1947) | A British psychological thriller directed by Lawrence Huntington

"The Upturned Glass" is a British psychological thriller film released in 1947, directed by Lawrence Huntington. The film stars James Mason and Rosamund John in lead roles and is known for its noirish atmosphere and exploration of dark themes.Show more

Plot Summary:
The story revolves around Michael Joyce (James Mason), a brilliant and charismatic surgeon who becomes infatuated with a woman named Sarah (Pamela Mason). After attending a lecture on criminology, Joyce becomes convinced that Sarah's husband, Richard (Robert Newton), is responsible for her unhappiness and that he should be removed from her life.

Driven by his obsession with Sarah and his belief in his own superiority, Joyce meticulously plans and executes a plot to murder Richard. The film unfolds as a psychological drama, delving into the mind of the protagonist as he rationalizes his actions and becomes increasingly entangled in a web of deception.

As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that Joyce's motivations are complex, rooted in personal insecurities, a desire for control, and a distorted sense of justice. The film explores themes of obsession, guilt, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

The title, "The Upturned Glass," is a reference to Joyce's profession as a surgeon and the moment of decision that leads him down a dark and morally ambiguous path. The film employs flashbacks and a non-linear narrative to reveal the events leading up to the crime and the subsequent investigation.

Key Themes:
1. Psychological Thriller: At its core, "The Upturned Glass" is a psychological thriller that delves into the psyche of the protagonist. The film explores the motivations and mental state of Joyce as he rationalizes and executes a heinous act.

2. Obsession and Control: The narrative revolves around Joyce's obsessive desire for Sarah and his belief that he can control her life by eliminating her husband. The film examines the destructive nature of unchecked obsession and the consequences of attempting to exert control over others.

3. Morality and Justice: "The Upturned Glass" raises questions about morality and justice as perceived by the protagonist. Joyce believes he is justified in his actions, reflecting a distorted sense of right and wrong.

4. Non-linear Narrative: The film employs a non-linear narrative structure, using flashbacks and present-day sequences to unravel the events leading up to the crime. This storytelling technique adds complexity to the plot and provides insight into the character's motivations.

Production and Reception:
"The Upturned Glass" is recognized for its noirish visuals and James Mason's compelling performance. The film received positive reviews for its atmospheric direction and psychological depth. While not as widely celebrated as some other films of the era, it is appreciated for its contribution to British noir cinema.

In summary, "The Upturned Glass" is a psychological thriller that explores themes of obsession, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. James Mason's nuanced performance and the film's noirish atmosphere contribute to its impact as a dark and compelling psychological drama.