THE HOUSE UNDER THE TREES (LA MAISON SOUS LES ARBRES. THE DEADLY TRAP)
France, 1971, 100 minutes, Colour.
Faye Dunaway, Frank Langella, Barbara Parkins, Michelle Lourie.
Directed by Rene Clement.

Rene Clement has made several effective thrillers. This one is minor, relying on psychological atmosphere rather than quick excitement. It is helped by Faye Dunaway's fine playing of a difficult role, an adoring mother of two children who is obviously being forced into madness. There is something mysterious about her brilliant husband (Frank Langella); her neighbour (Barbara Parkins) is too charming and friendly. Eventually the children are kidnapped and the plot moves along swiftly to its obvious conclusion. The time spent on building up the mother's love for her children will delight many audiences, but might irritate those who came wanting something violent and quick to happen.

1. The significance of the title? The English title was "The Deadly Trap". Which is more appropriate? The success of the film as a thriller? Its use of thriller conventions?

2. How involving was the long build-up at the beginning? The visuals of the barge ride? Its association with character? Mood?

3. The introduction of the character of Jill? How real? As a mother, as a woman?

4. The indications of her madness? The details of her forgetfulness? Audience puzzle over her predicament? Wondering where it will lead?

5. Jill's relationship to her husband? The mystery of his personality? Audience interest in him? His relationship to Jill? To the children?

6. Was he better understood when it was realised that he was involved in industrial espionage? The details of such espionage?

7. The relationship of husband and wife? Trust versus pressure? How well explored?

8. Cynthia and her relationship with Jill and Phillip? Her betrayal? Her involvement in espionage? Her redeeming herself? The significance of her death?

9. The details and tension of the kidnapping? The effect on the children?

10. The portrayal of anguish of parents? The details of their search? The irony of Cynthia's death?

11. The horror at the end and the children shooting? The effect on them?

12. How adequate was the solution? Was the happy ending necessary?

13. How effective a thriller? How interesting the human themes?