The Key

The Key
Number 12 Seaview is a spartan apartment in war ravaged Britain. Inside resides a "black widow," a live-in mistress to a succession of doomed rescue tug captains. Sophia Loren plays Stella with meloncholy beauty and sensitivity. Captain Chris Ford (Trevor Howard) is her latest lover. He received the key to the apartment from another captain who sensed the next torpedo had his name on it. Weary Stella is hardened by the war, she comes with the apartment and sees her lovers as temporary respite from the lonliness and grief she experiences with each one's passing.

Early on in the movie, Captain David Ross (William Holden) an American serving in the Canadian Army is transferred to the naval branch and sent to Britain as a replacement tugboat captain due to his past employment in that profession. He hooks up with old friend Captain Ford and the movie becomes an exploration of war's toll on morals and humanity.

Anyone who has faced imminent life threatening danger...

Who is hiding this movie?
Why is this movie so obscure? Three of the finest actors of the 50's and 60's play gritty and spooky, yet real and gripping roles, and only a few people take notice? This early WWII drama plays out the spent innocence, desperation, and despair of people trying to live with hope through a hopeless situation. Where are the flaws in this movie? Am I blind? Why is this movie not commercially popular like so many other equally worthy classic movies? Forget the stars! The supporting roles played by very gifted actors, the stark and stunning cinemataography, and the tensely paced story that unfolds makes this a great, if appearently unpopular classic. This is a quality movie that stands on its own merits regardless of popularity...

a must for die heart romantics
Looking at this viedo, one senses the loneliness of war,for both men and women. Finding this viedo available is special. William Holden is handsome and Sophia Loren beautiful. The plot has its own sentimental moments and climaxes with realism and understanding for the die hard romantic. At least a 2 hankie.

Click to Editorial Reviews