Graced with abundant wit, charm, and poignant romance, Douglas Sirk’s All That Heaven Allows represents the pinnacle of 1950s Hollywood melodrama. Jane Wymann plays a lonely widow comfortably ensconced in high society who falls for her much younger gardner, played by Rock Hudson. Gossip and scandal threaten to doom their flourishing romance and they must challenge the oppressive social norms of their day in their struggle to remain together.

Although popular with audiences, melodramas of the era were routinely overlooked by critics, who dismissed them as mere “weepies” or “women’s pictures.” But the ensuing years saw their reputation grow and a critical reevaluation take place. Today, films like All That Heaven Allows are recognized for how they subtly repurpose the conventions of the melodrama to make pointed social critiques. Douglas Sirk, in particular, was a master of this.

The pleasures of the film, which is shot in gorgeous technicolor, can also be found in its sophisticated cinematography, stunning production design, and engaging performances. A true classic, All That Heaven Allows remains essential cinema.