Personal Affair (1953)

The star power of leading lady Gene Tierney enabled the British Personal Affair to get good bookings in the U.S. The story is set in motion by impulsive schoolgirl Barbara Vining (Glynis Johns), who develops a crush on teacher Stephen Barlow (Leo Genn). Barlow's wife Kay (Tierney) confronts Barbara, advising the girl to get over his misguided ardor. Shortly thereafter, Barbara completely disappears. All evidence suggests that she has either met with foul play, or at the very least has killed herself. With nothing but rumor and hearsay to go on, the Court of Public Opinion forms its own vituperative opinions, thoroughly ruining the lives of Stephen and Kay Barlow. In any other circumstances, the outcome of the film might be regarded as a happy ending. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi