The Man Who Had Power Over Women
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film industry |
| Founded | 1970 |
| Founder | John Krish (director), Chris Bryant and Allan Scott (writers) |
| Products | Comedy film |
The Man Who Had Power Over Women is a 1970 British comedy film helmed by director John Krish, featuring performances from Rod Taylor, Carol White, and James Booth. Crafted by writers Chris Bryant and Allan Scott, the narrative centers on a thriving talent agent who grows disenchanted with his existence and embarks on an affair with his closest friend's spouse.
Plot
Peter Reaney, a prosperous public relations executive, manages the demanding pop artist Barry Black. Following the departure of his wife Angela, who takes the majority of their assets, Peter initiates a relationship with Jody, the wife of his best friend Val.
Peter uncovers that Barry Black has impregnated a fan named Mary Gray and is taken aback to find out that his agency is orchestrating a covert abortion.
When Peter and Jody confront Val about their liaison, they discover him in the company of Jody's acquaintance Francis. The subsequent day, Val dies in an accident, leading Peter and Jody to commit to their relationship.
After Mary's passing, Peter quits his position and publicly confronts Black.
Cast
- Rod Taylor as Peter Reaney
- Carol White as Jody Pringle
- James Booth as Val Pringle
- Penelope Horner as Angela Reaney
- Charles Korvin as Alfred Felix
- Alexandra Stewart as Frances
- Keith Barron as Jake Braid
- Clive Francis as Barry Black
- Marie-France Boyer as Maggie
- Magali Noël as Mrs Franchetti
- Geraldine Moffat as Lydia Blake
- Wendy Hamilton as Mary Gray
- Ellis Dale as Norman
- Philip Stone as Angela's father
- Matthew Booth as Mark Pringle
- Sara Booth as Sarah Pringle
- Virginia Clay as Mrs Pringle
- Jimmy Jewel as Mr Pringle
- Diana Chance as stripper
- Patrick Durkin as Herbie
- Paul Farrell as Reaney's father
- Geoffrey Hughes as policeman
- Valerie Leon as Glenda
- Ruth Trouncer as Mrs Gray
- Jacki Piper as receptionist
Production
Initially, director Silvio Narizzano was attached to the project but exited prior to filming. Screenwriters Chris Bryant and Allan Scott requested removal of their names from the credits due to dissatisfaction with alterations made after their involvement.
Critical reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin labeled the movie a straightforward sentimental tale dealing with spiritual remorse and commercial sacrifice, critiquing its overt moralizing and shallow treatment. The only commendable element was the depiction of friendship between two characters, which fades once the main storyline progresses.
Kine Weekly described it as a serious yet intermittently humorous examination of the pop music scene with broad appeal. Based on Gordon Williams' novel, it combines a grim narrative of avarice and fractured marriages with dark humor. Rod Taylor’s compelling portrayal and Carol White’s empathetic role were praised alongside strong supporting performances.
Boxoffice observed that audiences less critical than reviewers responded more favorably. John Krish’s direction along with performances by Taylor and James Booth received acclaim. The film integrates comedy, drama, and sexual content but missed chances to incorporate more pop music, featuring only a single song.
The Radio Times Guide to Films awarded it 1/5 stars, dismissing it as an outdated and awkward story that inadequately explores its ethical themes.
British critic Leslie Halliwell summarized it as a trendy yet unpersuasive portrayal of guilt amid affluence.
Sight and Sound described the tone as starkly cynical, illustrating London’s youth culture through advertising executives and music industry insiders disconnected from personal accountability. Carol White’s performance was highlighted for bringing depth to an otherwise thin character while the fashionable interiors captured the spirit of the period. The film offers insight into the commercial dynamics influencing London’s Swinging Sixties.