Intermezzo (1939 film)

Intermezzo is a 1939 American romantic drama film directed by Gregory Ratoff and starring Leslie Howard and Ingrid Bergman. It is a remake of the 1936 Swedish film of the same name, Intermezzo, which also starred Bergman.

The film tells the story of Holger Brandt (Howard), a world-renowned violinist, who finds himself drawn to Anita Hoffman (Bergman), his daughter's young and talented piano tutor. Despite being happily married, Holger begins a passionate affair with Anita, disrupting his family life and threatening his career. He is torn between his love for his wife and children and his intense attraction to Anita.

The film explores themes of love, duty, temptation, and the consequences of choices. Anita, aware of the potential damage their relationship could cause, ultimately chooses to leave Holger so that he can return to his family. The ending is bittersweet, with Holger returning to his concert career a changed man, acknowledging the profound impact Anita had on his life.

Intermezzo marked Ingrid Bergman's Hollywood debut and was a critical and commercial success, solidifying her status as a rising star. The film is noted for its romantic score, its poignant story, and the strong performances of its leads.