The Fox

The Fox is an evocative 1967 drama film, directed by Mark Rydell and adapted from a novella by celebrated British author D.H. Lawrence, providing a narrative perspective that is as complex as it is thought-provoking. The movie stars Keir Dullea, Sandy Dennis, and Anne Heywood and takes place primarily in an isolated farmhouse in the Canadian countryside.

In the film, we are introduced to two main characters, Jill Banford (played by Sandy Dennis) and Ellen March (played by Anne Heywood), who are two women living together on a dilapidated farm in rural Canada. Their idyllic, serene lives are detailed to the finest elements of struggle and companionship. They inhabit an introspective world, untroubled by societal norms. The struggles they face are rather with the harsh realities of survival, struggling with the labors of the farm and the harsh winter.

Jill is portrayed as more domestic and somewhat timid, dealing with the menial chores on the farm, such as tending to their chicken coop. Meanwhile, Ellen handles the more physically demanding tasks of surviving in the wilderness with an unwavering sense of determination and resourcefulness.

The title The Fox is metaphorical, referring to an actual fox that has been preying on their flock of chickens, but also alluding to the arrival of an unexpected visitor who disrupts their isolated existence. This element of conflict in the plot is introduced with the arrival of Paul Grenfel (played by Keir Dullea).

Grenfel is a free-spirited and brooding character who, in need of a place to stay, is an enigmatic drifter and a former colleague of Jill's deceased father. The arrival of this handsome yet mystifying man creates an emotional upheaval as he brings with him a challenging dynamic that begins to disrupt the women's relationship, culminating in a tense romantic triangle.

The film delves deep into its characters' interior lives and is less about plot than about mood and atmosphere, creating a deeply nuanced portrayal of gender dynamics and power struggles. The Fox is filled with notable performances, turning what could have been a mere melodrama into a profound examination of relationships, passion, and the human psyche.

Stunningly shot with an exceptional eye for capturing the raw beauty and harshness of the Canadian wilderness, the film works well in synthesizing natural elements into its narrative. These environmental elements are not just part of the setting, but they aid in highlighting the interior struggles and the constant lingering tension between the characters.

The performances of all three characters are genuinely compelling. Sandy Dennis portrays Jill with an obvious vulnerability that is both endearing and tragic. Anne Heywood delivers a powerful performance as Ellen, showcasing strength, vulnerability, and an intricate range of emotions. Meanwhile, Keir Dullea as Paul, brings an unsettling charm and sensuality that adds another layer of complexity to the character dynamics.

The Fox explores deeper aspects of human relationships and sexuality, which was daring for its time. Though set in the late 60s, the issues and themes it explores, such as gender roles, power dynamics in relationships, and sexual identity, feel timeless and are still relevant today. Its portrayal of love and complex emotions transcends the boundaries of time and can resonate with contemporary audiences.

The film's score, composed by Lalo Schifrin, beautifully complements its somber mood and magnifies the visual storytelling. The music plays a crucial role in setting the tone, adding melancholic undernotes, and capturing the emotional depth of the movie's pivotal moments.

In conclusion, The Fox is a well-crafted, visually stunning, psychologically intriguing drama that beautifully illustrates the complexities of human emotions within the constraints of societal norms. For the discerning film lover, it provides a compelling cinematic experience and a kind of sensitive, critical examination of relationships that underscores the timeless nature of human experiences and emotions.