All I Desire

Barbara Stanwyck plays turn-of-the-century woman who once left behind her husband and children to pursue a career as a stage-actress; now she's back, at least temporarily, to attend her daughter's graduation. Potentially compelling premise is needlessly set in the 1900s (why not adjust the scenario for the modern age? The narrative certainly seems relevant enough). Director Douglas Sirk nearly smothers the proceedings in a rosy, sentimental hue (also needless), though he's a careful, attentive director and gets good performances from his cast (with Stanwyck giving it some grit). Sirk is also wise with the intricate details of story and character, making this an above-average soaper. **1/2 from ****