Eighty years after its release, Albert Lewin’s The Picture of Dorian Gray remains one of the most compelling cinematic adaptations of Oscar Wilde’s infamous novel. A gothic tale of moral decay, vanity, and suppressed guilt, the film masterfully captures the essence of Wilde’s work while adding a visual grandeur that enhances its haunting themes. Starring Hurd Hatfield in the titular role, alongside a stellar supporting cast including George Sanders and Angela Lansbury, this 1945 production remains a fascinating exploration of beauty’s fleeting nature and the cost of indulgence.

Wilde’s story has endured for well over a century, and Lewin’s adaptation successfully brings its themes to life on the silver screen. The film’s lush black-and-white cinematography, punctuated by shocking Technicolor glimpses of the corrupted portrait, offers a striking visual metaphor for the contrast between outward beauty and inner depravity. Hatfield’s eerily composed performance adds to the film’s unsettling nature, portraying Dorian as a man who, despite his eternal youth, becomes increasingly hollow and detached from humanity.

At its core, The Picture of Dorian Gray remains relevant because its themes never age. In an era obsessed with image and self-preservation, the film’s exploration of facades and moral decay feels as timely as ever. Dorian’s relentless pursuit of pleasure, devoid of consequence, mirrors modern anxieties about vanity and the curated perfection we present to the world.

For all its elegance, Lewin’s adaptation does not shy away from the darker aspects of Wilde’s work. Dorian’s gradual descent into cruelty, his inability to form genuine connections, and the film’s eerie atmosphere all contribute to a sense of creeping dread. Angela Lansbury’s heartbreaking turn as the ill-fated Sibyl Vane remains a highlight, showcasing how Dorian’s influence can destroy those around him.

As The Picture of Dorian Gray celebrates its 80th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of Wilde’s vision. A film that perfectly balances beauty and horror, it continues to captivate audiences, reminding us that behind every perfect exterior, shadows lurk beneath the surface.

• Saul Muerte