A Kind of Loving (1962)

One of numerous unheralded small films graced with the presence of underrated British actor Alan Bates, A Kind of Loving is the story of a young British couple who marry after the woman (June Ritchie) becomes pregnant. Their marriage founders, but they eventually reconcile. Director John Schlesinger blanketed the film with a morose urban landscape and a blunt moral tone. Based on a novel by Stan Barstow, it has an early 1960s feel of fresh disillusionment, as young adults battle a society that once seemed promising but is now unforgiving. Bates' performance helps the film achieve a rare dignity despite the indecision and failings of its characters, none of whom are paragons of virtue. This was Schlesinger's first feature film; he would later win acclaim with such films as Darling and Midnight Cowboy that continued to show his skill at memorable characterizations. ~ Michael Betzold, All Movie Guide