Don Chaffey, the director, had prior to this film made 'The Flesh is Weak' a rather timid approach to Prostitution in the UK. Given the conservatism of English cinema in the 1950's this was a sensational film on a subject (as far as I know) not previously aired in the claustrophobic climate of the time, despite the fact that foreign films on the subject were shown, usually cut, in the UK. 'A Question of Adultery' approached the equally controversial subject of artificial insemination, again a taboo subject, along with prostitution and homosexuality. I watched the film, of which I am fortunate to have a copy, to further my own questioning on the subject of sexuality in all its forms after WW2, a supposed turning point in British 'morals'. As usual, I found understanding of human sexuality wanting. This film does not endorse its subject, and the ending is cautious, but despite this it was a film condemned, especially in religious quarters. 'X' certificated and cut in the UK, it fast disappeared into oblivion, and still lingers there. Why has it not been brought out on DVD when it is actually a well acted and a very watchable film? Julie London is in love with her over jealous husband who controls her every move, suspecting possible adultery every time she comes into friendly contact with another man. Anthony Steel is excellent in his role as the husband and he in turn is controlled by a father equally obsessed by his son. Caught in this trap, Julie London plays a rare character in British film of that period; a woman who is faithful but feels free to claim her own rights as a human being. London, with her husky voice and forceful presence, is superb to watch, navigating herself through rough waters to have a child, despite her husband's arguable mental cruelty, and his inability to conceive a child with her due to a car accident. This leads to her decision (with her husband agreeing reluctantly) to turn to a clinic in Switzerland offering artificial insemination. Caught in a snowstorm, a man played well by Anton Diffring gives her shelter. End of spoilers; it all ends up in court with her accused of adultery. The film tries to be as adult as possible and given the quality of the acting, good direction and treating a troubled issue of the era, it deserved more respect, and still does. London, Steel, Diffring and a brief appearance of Donald Houston in a small, but major role also deserve recognition for creating well-rounded characters and I hope, late in the day though it is, that the film surfaces again to be evaluated with a long overdue DVD.
Review of A Question of Infidelity
