(VOD) A sensationalistic drama about transactional sex, based on James O’Hara’s 1935 novel, but the adaptation takes place ~1960, which makes a major difference regarding attitudes towards sex. Also, the NYC bars, which are by far the most interesting facets of O’Hara’s novel, are mostly unmemorable in the film.
Context aside, the opening sequence is by far the reason to watch this film. It’s pitch-perfect character exposition and exquisitely sets everything up for what’s about to unfurl, plus it’s very on-brand for Elizabeth Taylor (who only did the film out of contractual obligation, but then won her first Oscar for it).
NO SALE!