The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945)

The story behind Dorian Gray involves a painting and a pact. What unfolds onscreen is a macabre drama of obsession that leads to murder. Basil Hallward (Lowell Gilmore) paints a captivating portrait of naïve aristocrat Dorian (Hurd Hatfield). After meeting cynic Lord Henry Wotton (George Sanders), Dorian becomes obessed with remaining young and wishes for the picture to age instead of him.  Though he ages,  Dorian's face remains unchanged, but the portrait reflects his soul and the ugliness found there.

Set in Victorian England, The Picture of Dorian Gray is filmed in black and white with moments of glorious Technicolor to emphasize the portrait’s intoxicating powers.

Hurd Hatfield makes Dorian Gray believable. His evolution from young and handsome aristocrat to corrupted and brooding aristocrat is amazing. Surrounding him is a supporting cast that includes Angela Lansbury and Donna Reed looking very Hollywood.

As I see it, The Picture of Dorian Gray is simply a gorgeous drama that recalls a time when movies were REAL productions; this award-winning masterpiece works wonderfully thanks to the pitch perfect score, impecable cinematography, and soulful performances.