When Tomorrow Dies is a 1965 Canadian drama directed by Larry Kent. The film stars Patricia Gage as Gwen James, a housewife trapped in an unfulfilling marriage to Doug (Douglas Campbell). Seeking personal fulfillment, Gwen returns to university and embarks on an extramarital affair with her professor, Patrick Trevelyan (Neil Dainard).
Plot Summary
Set in Vancouver, the narrative follows Gwen James, a young mother and housewife, who feels imprisoned by her domestic life and ignored by her successful husband, Doug. In an attempt to reclaim her sense of self, Gwen enrolls in university courses, where she becomes romantically involved with her professor, Patrick Trevelyan. This affair leads Gwen to confront her desires and the constraints imposed by societal expectations.
Themes
The film explores themes of marital dissatisfaction, personal liberation, and the complexities of extramarital relationships. It delves into the struggles of women seeking autonomy and fulfillment beyond traditional domestic roles, reflecting the evolving societal attitudes of the 1960s.
Production and Style
When Tomorrow Dies was shot in Vancouver with a budget of $100,000, marking Kent’s first time directing a screenplay not entirely his own, as it was primarily written by University of British Columbia creative writing professor Robert Harlow. The film employs a naturalistic style, capturing the urban landscape and social milieu of the time.
Reception
Upon its release, the film received attention for its candid portrayal of a woman’s quest for self-discovery. It was later screened at the 1984 Festival of Festivals as part of “Front & Centre,” a retrospective program of significant Canadian films. In 2002 and 2003, it was included in a retrospective of Kent’s works, highlighting its enduring relevance in Canadian cinema.
Availability
As of November 2024, When Tomorrow Dies is available for streaming on Kanopy.
Overall Impressions
When Tomorrow Dies offers a poignant exploration of personal liberation and the societal constraints faced by women in the 1960s. Its character-driven narrative and authentic portrayal of marital dynamics provide a compelling viewing experience, making it a noteworthy piece in the history of Canadian cinema.
Suggested Audience
This film is ideal for viewers interested in character-driven dramas that explore themes of personal fulfillment and societal expectations. Fans of classic cinema and those interested in the evolution of women’s roles in film may find When Tomorrow Dies particularly engaging.
For a visual glimpse into the film, you can watch the trailer below:
