...one of the ten most popular films ever released in the UK, The Seventh Seal owes its reputation largely to the music, and to Todd and Mason, both of whom still shine even when the mechanics creak...

The pity is that all this fine work should have been given to what is only, after all is said, another rather obvious story of luxury and the romantic yearnings of the poor little rich girl.

Infused with Freudian psychology, which was popular at the time, this Oscar-winning amnesia melodrama is very well acted by James Mason as the Svengali-like figure and Ann Todd as his pianist protege.

Ann Todd ("Francesca") is a renowned concert pianist being treated by psychiatrist Herbert Lom ("Dr. Larsen") after she tried to commit suicide. To establish what has driven her to this, we delve back into her past as she goes to live with her rather austere, wealthy, distant cousin "Nicholas" (James Mason) who starts her off on her rather lonely path to success. Only when she falls in love with "Max" (Albert Lievin) does she start to confront her fears - and Mason - and try to break free from his control. Aside from some wonderful classical accompaniments as she plays the concert halls of Europe; the acting is stylish - Mason exudes a sophisticated, nuanced degree of menace and Lom a caring determination to help his patient as the drama builds to it's climax. Tod I found, was the weak link. She didn't quite reach the heights of her co-stars, and her performance here is just a little stilted and lacklustre; but as en ensemble piece the film delivers well.