A Bill of Divorcement (1940) | Directed by John Farrow

This poignant family drama revolves around a woman who is preparing to remarry after her husband has spent years in an asylum. Just as her future seems secure, he unexpectedly returns, recovered but deeply changed. His reappearance threatens the emotional balance of the household and forces each family member to confront painful truths about love, responsibility, and the scars of the past.

Genre: Drama

Director: John Farrow

John Farrow was an Australian-born director and screenwriter who built a successful career in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s. Known for his efficient storytelling and thematic focus on moral dilemmas, Farrow directed a wide range of films, from noir to adventure. He was married to actress Maureen O’Sullivan and was the father of actress Mia Farrow. His filmography includes acclaimed works such as *Wake Island* and *The Big Clock*.

Star Cast:

* Maureen O'Hara as Sidney Fairfield
* Adolphe Menjou as Hilary Fairfield
* Fay Bainter as Margaret Fairfield
* Herbert Marshall as Gray Meredith
* Dame May Whitty as Aunt Hester
* Harry Davenport as Reverend Christopher Pumphrey

The 1940 version of *A Bill of Divorcement* was received with moderate acclaim. While it was often compared unfavorably to the 1932 version starring Katharine Hepburn in her screen debut, critics still appreciated the earnest performances, especially those of Fay Bainter and Adolphe Menjou. The film resonated with audiences for its sensitive treatment of mental illness and the emotional toll of family upheaval.

Fun Facts:

* This was the second screen adaptation of Clemence Dane’s 1921 stage play; the first, in 1932, was notable for launching Katharine Hepburn’s film career.
* Maureen O’Hara, then an emerging star at RKO, took on a more serious role here, departing from her earlier, lighter parts.
* Although not a major hit, the film helped reinforce John Farrow’s reputation as a dependable director of literary adaptations.
* The themes of mental health and social taboos made it somewhat daring for its time, even as it softened some of the original play’s more controversial implications.

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