Anna Karenina - A Garbo Film

So, Anna Karenina is not a Film Noir. I do watch other classic films as well as Noir. And this romantic drama/tragedy is a great one.

Based on the novel, it tells the story of a sad, lonely, married Russian woman (Greta Garbo) with a cold, stern husband (Basil Rathbone, as usual) and an adored young son (Freddie Bartholomew). Anna falls for a dashing soldier (played by Fredric March) and her Fate is sealed. In a time where love cannot be free and duty and religion seem to rule over everyone, there can be only one tragic end to this story. 

The sets are divine, and the costumes, the acting is sincere and passionate - well, except for Rathbone, who could freeze your blood with one look or angry word, even on a hot August day.

The only bits of annoyance I have with this film are the mustaches. I know, history must be represented accurately but Geez Louise men come up with the strangest ways to wear facial hair. LOL