It is hard not to expect a lot from a film with such a great title, 'Payment on Demand' promises such a lot, although somehow the story was not the story that entered my mind when reading the title before reading any synopsis. It is also hard not to expect a lot from a film that starred such a great actress like Bette Davis, in a role that sounded like it would fit her like a glove and one she would play to the hilt in a good way.
'Payment on Demand' may not be a great one, but it was gripping and well photographed, scripted and acted. Not to mention quite biting and ahead of its time. It may not be for anyone that doesn't like films that rely quite heavily on flashbacks, but anybody who loves Davis regardless of her character's purposeful lack of likeability will find it quite a treat and much to admire (even if not everything works), me being one of those people.
Beginning with what works, the shadowy photography is quite beautiful to look at and her wardrobe for Davis is fabulous and suits her. The music avoids being too melodramatic, which is amazing considering the type of film/story that it is accompanying. The script is snappy and intelligent and avoids being too soapy or cliched. Regardless of how the story may seem today, it was as said by others actually ahead of its time in its handling of its subject. Done so with truth and bite.
The flashbacks generally entertain and intrigue, even if there could have been less of them. Although Davis' character is as far away from likeable as one can get, the characters on the most part are well written and interesting. Curtis Bernhardt's direction handles everything skillfully. Most of the acting is very good, with Jane Cowl excellent in her part and Otto Kruger a strong presence in his. Best of all is Davis, who is magnetic as usual and attacks her role with gusto.
Conversely, the pace plods at times as a result of 'Payment on Demand' being a little too flashback-heavy. The ending had a running out of steam feel, felt forced and actually somewhat safe for a film that was unflinchingly ahead of its time.
Sadly there was an exception to the acting though through really in no fault of his own. Barry Sullivan has a character that is not as interesting as the rest and was a bit bland as a result.
Overall, pretty good though Davis' performance is better than the film. 7/10
