The Lady in Question (1940) in Color — Starring Brian Aherne & Rita Hayworth

The Lady in Question (1940) — Buy This Classic in Color

Experience the charming romantic drama The Lady in Question (1940) colorized in stunning HD quality. Directed by Charles Vidor, this captivating film stars Brian Aherne as a warm-hearted Parisian juror who rescues a young woman accused of murder, and Rita Hayworth and Glenn Ford in the film that first paired two of Hollywood’s most legendary screen partners. Now available as an instant, DRM-free digital download for only €15.00.

Plot Summary

André Dorain (Brian Aherne), a kind, principled Parisian bicycle shop owner, serves on a jury trying a beautiful young woman named Natalie Roguin (Rita Hayworth) for the murder of her wealthy older lover. While the evidence seems damning and his fellow jurors are eager to convict, André alone argues passionately and persuasively for acquittal. His eloquence sways the jury, and Natalie walks free — to the intense displeasure of his formidable wife Michelle (Irene Rich) and the suspicious resentment of his mother (Cora Witherspoon).

But André’s compassion does not end with the verdict. Learning that Natalie has been left destitute by the trial, with no money, no work, and no place to live, André secretly takes her into his home, disguising her identity from his family by introducing her as a respectable shop girl in need of lodging. The plan is simple and charitable, but it quickly becomes complicated when André’s handsome, idealistic law student son Pierre (Glenn Ford) falls deeply and passionately in love with the mysterious boarder — ignorant of her scandalous past and near-conviction for murder.

As the romance between Pierre and Natalie blossoms with genuine tenderness and youthful intensity, the secrets pile up dangerously. Michelle grows suspicious of the attractive young boarder. A former associate connected to Natalie’s previous life appears, threatening to expose everything. And André finds himself trapped between his desire to protect the innocent woman he saved and the growing realization that the truth could shatter his family. When the full story finally emerges, it forces every character to confront the difference between judgment and compassion, the nature of guilt and innocence, and whether love can truly redeem the past.

Cast & Crew

Director: Charles Vidor
Stars: Brian Aherne delivers a warmly compelling performance as the decent, principled André, anchoring the film with genuine humanity and quiet moral authority. Rita Hayworth is luminous and emotionally layered as Natalie, demonstrating the dramatic depth that would make her one of cinema’s greatest stars. Glenn Ford is engaging and passionately earnest as the young Pierre — this was the first of their seven iconic screen pairings that would define both careers. Irene Rich, George Coulouris, and Cora Witherspoon provide richly drawn supporting performances.

Why Buy This Classic in Color?

This professionally colorized edition brings new visual charm to the Parisian setting, elegant period costumes, and the glowing romantic chemistry between Hayworth and Ford. Era-accurate hues illuminate the warmth of the Dorain family home, the atmospheric courtroom scenes, and the blossoming romance. Now also available in colour.

Buy now for an instant, secure digital download with no DRM restrictions. Compatible with all devices that play MP4 files.

Historical Significance

Released in 1940, The Lady in Question holds a special place in cinema history as the very first screen pairing of Rita Hayworth and Glenn Ford, who would go on to become one of Hollywood’s most celebrated and beloved screen couples across seven films spanning two decades. It was also an important transitional role for Hayworth, showcasing the dramatic talent that would propel her to superstardom. Based on the French film Gribouille (1937), the remake demonstrates Hollywood’s skill at adapting European stories for American audiences. Through colorization, this landmark early pairing is preserved for modern audiences.

Technical Details

• Format: MP4
• Resolution: HD 720p
• Colorized: Yes — professionally restored frame-by-frame
• Audio: Original English mono soundtrack
• Runtime: 80 minutes
• DRM-free: Yes — play anywhere, keep forever
• Instant download: Yes — available immediately after purchase
• Price: €15.00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Movie-Specific Questions

Q: Is this the first Rita Hayworth and Glenn Ford film?
A: Yes, this was the very first of seven legendary screen pairings between Hayworth and Ford, a partnership that would produce iconic films like Gilda (1946) and The Loves of Carmen (1948).

Q: Is this a remake?
A: Yes, it is a Hollywood remake of the 1937 French film Gribouille (also known as Heart of Paris), directed by Marc Allégret with Michèle Morgan and Raimu in the French original.

Q: What genre is this film?
A: It is a blend of romantic drama, courtroom intrigue, and family comedy-drama, anchored by themes of compassion, justice, secrets, and redemption.

Digital Download Questions

Q: What format is the download?
A: The film is delivered as a high-quality MP4 file compatible with all modern devices and media players.

Q: Is there DRM protection?
A: No. The download is completely DRM-free — you own it outright and can play it on any device forever.

Q: How do I receive the film after purchase?
A: You receive an instant download link immediately after payment. A backup copy of the link is also sent to your email address.

Related Colorized Classics

• Gilda (1946)
• The Cavern (1964)
• Undercover Girl (1950)
• Only Angels Have Wings (1939)
• Affair in Trinidad (1952)