The ‘Indiscreet’ Charm of Glamour

“Indiscreet” makes one nostalgic for the stylish romantic comedies of the 1940s and ‘50s.

In this 1958 film, Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant play Anna and Phillip, two unattached, glamorous and successful Americans who meet in Anna’s tony London apartment.

Their mutual attraction is swift and palpable. Phillip, a businessman up for a NATO post, tells Anna he’s married; he feels it’s the only way to maintain his bachelor status. Anna, a renowned stage actress, accepts the arrangement, and before long they’re in the throes of a passionate love affair complete with late-night phone calls and moonlight walks along the Thames.

When Anna discovers Phillip has been lying to her about his marital status, she vows revenge. “How dare he make love to me and not be a married man,” she fumes.

“Indiscreet” is short on plot but more than makes up for it in style. Director Stanley Donen cleverly gets around the Hollywood censors by using a split screen to create the illusion that Anna and Phillip are sharing the same bed. And Anna must be the best-dressed woman in London, wearing one stunning outfit after another, and Phillip is the essence of urbane sophistication whether he’s decked out in red pajamas or a classic tuxedo.

Stylish filmmaking techniques further enhance the appeal of “Indiscreet.” Generous use of close-ups and long takes allow the audience to sit back and enjoy two of the most glamorous and talented stars ever to grace Hollywood.

The script, by Norman Krasna, features some delightful scenes (in one, the usually suave Grant dances a wild jig at an elegant dinner dance) and witty remarks (Bergman’s brother-in-law observes, “There is no sincerity like a woman telling a lie”).

“Indiscreet” (1958), directed by Stanley Donen. 100 minutes. Not rated.