AllMovie

That Forsyte Woman is based upon the first book in the "Forsyte" series that were much better served by the BBC mini-series. Not that Woman is a bad film; it just pales in comparison to the later adaptation. Part of that is simply a matter of compression; even one of Galsworthy's books was too rich in detail to make an easy transition to a 112-minute film. As a result, the movie has to simplify a great deal of the plot and characterizations, and som much of it comes across a bit too "soapy" or melodramatic. Casting is also a bit problematic. Greer Garson has all of the class and spirit required for the role, but she seems a bit ill-at-easeat times. Cast against type, Errol Flynn comes off very well, but his innate strength and appeal subtly throws things off balance, and Robert Young and Walter Pidgeon are not strong enough to put things back on an even keel. Still, the performers all have good moments, and the lavish production is eye-catching, with special praise for Irene Valles and Walter Plunkett's beautiful costumes. If less than perfect, Woman is still enjoyable.