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Barbara Stanwyck stars as a recently widowed woman who causes a stir in her social circle when she finds new love with an army major (George Brent). She’s prepared to defy her friends and mother, but when her twelve and fourteen-year-old sons confront her with the rumors, she finds herself stuck between a rock and a hard place: her own happiness, or her family responsibilities.
My Reputation is a portrait of a woman caught between progressive and conservative values. It would create controversy if it were released today. But as a product of its time, it fairly captures the gendered expectations prevalent throughout the twentieth century. ’40s audiences may have been challenged by Stanwyck’s independence at the start of the film, while today’s audiences may groan about the third act’s pull toward traditional family values.
Social politics aside, it’s a good vehicle for Stanwyck, who carries the film admirably. She’s especially strong when she breaks down in front of her closest friend, played by the reliable but underutilized Eve Arden (Mildred Pierce). Scenes between Stanwyck and her domineering mother (The Women‘s Lucile Watson) are also memorable. The weakest link in the film is George Brent as the new paramour. He’s a strikingly bad casting decision, lacking charisma and creating absolutely no sparks with Stanwyck.
Directed by Curtis Bernhardt. With Warner Anderson, Esther Dale, prolific child actor Scotty Beckett (Our Gang), and a grand score by Max Steiner.