Anna Lucasta (1958)

On the Broadway stage in the 1940, Philip Yordan's Anna Lucasta caused quite a stir; this 1958 remake (the play was first filmed in 1949) didn't create quite the same reaction when released and when seen today it is likely to be dismissed as an exercise in much ado about nothing. The blame lasts primarily with Yordan's screenplay, which to modern audiences will seem overwrought in the extreme -- not to mention mechanical and overly calculated. Still, Yordan had a definite flair, and even in the midst of this he manages to come up with a number of powerful scenes and some moments that really hit the mark. He's helped by a very fine cast. While it's easy to charge that many are overacting, for the most part they're simply doing what Yordan's screenplay requires -- and doing it quite well. Sultry, pouty Eartha Kitt is everything that Anna should be -- a frightened tiger, ready to bear her claws and fangs one moment then nuzzle up against a fellow with soft purrs the next. Sammy Davis Jr. isn't quite as comfortable in his role, perhaps because physically he's a bit too lightweight for the part, but he brings conviction to his role. And Rex Ingram is downright spooky as the father who doth protest too much. Anna should be seen, not for its screenplay, but for the chance to see talented black actors given a chance to handle some meaty, if overdone, parts. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide