Persecution

Routine attempt at a psychological thriller, given more weight than it deserves by a good performance from Ralph Bates as the pawn in his pathologically domineering mother's game. Lana Turner, as the rich American widow living in London and haunted by a richly murky past, labours to hold her head high and bear up despite the Grand Guignol all round her tipping into embarrassing silliness. Trevor Howard makes a fleeting guest appearance, and Chaffey's direction lapses into the tic of concealing the camera behind whatever comes to hand (leaves, a balustrade, fire...).