365 Movies: East Side, West Side Review

East Side, West Side stars Barbara Stanwyck, James Mason, Ava Gardner, Van Heflin, and Cyd Charisse in this 1949 melodrama, directed by Mervyn LeRoy. After having an affair, about a year ago, Brandon Bourne(Mason) tries to reform his ways, but his ex-flame Isabel Lorrison(Gardner) keeps on pulling him back. His wife, Jessie(Stanwyck) is supportive and believes that he can reform, but his constant feeling of being tied down, throws the two apart. Feeling neglected, Jessie finds comfort in Mark Dwyer(Heflin) and the two connect instantly, the minute they meet. It's a pretty good film, with an all-star cast. There is a lot of chemistry between Ava and James, they were gorgeous together! I would have liked to have seen James in a different type of role. In this, he's a scoundrel but I still think, he's marvelous in the role. Barbara is always fantastic! With a small role as Rosa Senta, I thought Cyd was splendid!

Review for Tomorrow: Double Wedding