Diane

But Marisa Pavan stole the movie

"Diane" is probably the most unappreciated, under-rated little masterpiece in film history. I was a college student movie-goer in 1955 when it was released, but not until years later when my Mother happened to mention how good it was, did I hear about it. Then after 1993 when the Turner Home Video came out I discovered I wasn't the only one that had overlooked it, and no wonder with the inappropriate misleading advertising art such as the official graphics used for this DVD cover instead of a scene in costumes like the VHS version. Pay no attention to that. One would think it was a cheesy modern day love affair instead of a lavish historical romance. Plus, there's the ridiculous teaser comment, "Lana dares the devil." What? It has nothing to do with the supernatual. I suspect this unusual promotional blunder occurred during the time of turmoil and foolish change away from the grand and glorious tradition of MGM created by their renowned Studio boss Louis B. Mayer who had been unfortunately ousted.It was, as others here have noted, Lana's last film for the roaring Lion before she went on to a new fame at Universal. She gives one of her most gorgeous, impeccable performances, but I must admit Marisa Pavan in the supporting role almost steals the picture from her and should have been at least nominated for an Oscar. Her portrayal of the "other woman" requiring a full spectrum of emotions that fosters both good and bad audience reactions toward her is magnificent!Also making it definitely worthwhile, as pointed out by other reviewers, are the breathtaking costumes designed by Walter Plunkett of "Gone With the Wind" wardrobe fame, and of course the always brilliant Miklos Rozsa music score. BUT, what really struck me the most are the final few minutes of the movie with an unexpected little added nuance that is so touching it has to be one of the tenderest heart-tugging endings of all time!

If you love Lana Turner films and or history like i do this movie is a win win!....Lana is terrific as Diana de Portiers mistress of Henri II Valois of France.....the only thing off about her being cast as Diane is that she is too beautiful to be Diane. Diane was an average looking woman but she had great fashion sense and style she was almost old enough to be Henri's mother but she was very glamorous and youthful for her age gap with Henri....Henri was married to Catherine de Medici a powerhouse of a queen that was plain in looks but her intelligence and brilliance at handling the reigns of government were unparalleled at this time in French history. The country was being torn apart by religious wars between the Huguenots (protestants) and the Catholics....she inherited a mess and her sons were poorly equipted to manage on their own as they were weak and easily flattered by powerful men with their own agendas. The story in this movie has Hollywood taking as usual poetic license to make it more interesting and intriguing that what actually transpired during this time but if it does nothing else it makes the viewer more interested in learning more about this woman and how she was treated more like the actual queen of France than Catherine was when Henri was alive...once he dies in a tragic accident....Catherine gets her time in the sun and Diane is exiled from court.....this film is wonderful and the real women in this film..Diane de Portiers and Catherine de Medici are certainly worth seeking out books to learn more about these fascinating real women of French history.

Dvd arrived very quickly and in great condition. Thanks ThisThatnThat. Warner Brothers Archive collection, widescreen, good transfer, 110+min., no subtitles or special features, movie trailer. Never knew of this 65 year film till now. Wow, it's rare that I find such an unknown(to me) movie from so long ago. I'd buy this again on a remastered blu-ray. Lavish, romantic drama, colors and jewels sparkle, along with Lana Turner, Pedro Armendariz, Cedric Hardwick, Torin Thatcher, Marisa Pavan and a young Roger Moore. Very well done and very entertaining. I don't know about it's historical accuracy, but I enjoyed it, as a movie.

Lana Turner is so astute and involving in her portrayal of Diane that you are caught up right off, as she brings you into her life of intrigue, mystery, love, and tragedy.Lana Turenr always had that way of looking and speaking so that you feel she is speaking and looking at you. She is not a great great actress, but a very good one, vastly underrated. Diane is one her best, along with Peyton Place, Imitation of Life, By Love Possessed, Portrait In Black, Madame X, and The Rains of Ranchipur.This film is spectacular, in cinemascope, with the evil Marisa Pavan as Catherine De Medici, a startling performance. She had such gifts that were not used!!Roger More is very fine as are all the cast memembers. Not to be overlooked as it was in the 50s when I saw it first run. Buy this and play it for years. One magnificent scene after another!The Miklos Roza score is indeed one of his best.Check out too "Lust For Life" for Roza greatness.Note: The credits for "Diane" have a crown and draperies beneath it.. it is the same credit backdrop for Grace Kelly's fabulous "The Swan. MGM was getting cheap.

There was a time, long ago, when MGM was ruling its kingdom in Culver City, California, sparing no expenses when it came to movie business. We have a fine example here, with this 1955 film, the french court of the 16th century had been so lavishly recreated, that you can't believe your eyes...The scenery, the costumes and the music by the great Miklos ROZSA are just perfect. The acting is quite good too, especially the scenes between Lana TURNER and Marisa PAVAN, even if a very young Roger MOORE is far less convincing as king HENRY II. Of course, being french, I noticed some historical mistakes ( I don't think that king FRANCOIS 1st died of battle wounds) but does it really matter ? This Warner Collection release is a real treat with gorgeous colors, and full stereo sound.....Don't hesitate, you won't be sorry to get this DVD !

Everything perfect!!

Had recorded this film from the television many years ago and loved it. Was glad I was able to buy it on DVD. Love Roger Moore in this film, he was so handsome.

Absolutely brilliant - a must for Roger Moore fans

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