This film focuses on the plight of Jews fleeing Nazi Germany. It is fairly well made but the script, based on a novel by famed writer Remarque, tends to wander rather aimlessly, making for a less than compelling film. March is fine as a man who has escaped from a concentration camp, leaving behind his beloved wife in Germany. In one of his earliest roles, baby-faced Ford turns in an impressive performance as March's fellow escapee. Sullavan, in one of her last films, is also good as Ford's love interest. Dee gets third billing, but has only a few minutes of screen time as March's wife. The film looks good visually, but the pacing leaves something to be desired.

All the players deliver fine multi-dimensional and interesting characters in this fine 1941 movie, but especially Glenn Ford and Mergaret Sullivan. I did not find the story depressing because most characters dealt with their unfortunate situation of being exiles without papers (and thereby forbidden jobs and usually hunted down) with determination and a will to survive.While holding nothing back in my recommendation that you at once order this long-unavailable film in DVD, I have just one bone to pick with it, one that didn't even exist when the film was made in 1941: I do not like the way persons in the movie industry have re-written the history of World War II to create the erroneous impression that it was all about the Jews, the Jews, and nothing but the Jews. Ask any young person today about World War II and they'll answer in the context of the Jews. Bunk! What does anybody think about the 20 minute obliteration of Rotterdam, or the fire-bombing of London? Better yet, visit the cemetery at Normandy (which the drive-by media forgot all about this year; not one word of remembrance for those who bought our freedom with their lives; of no importance to NBC, CBS or ABC.)The evil of the Nazi's and their hatred of other people included Catholics, Protestants, Poles, English, French, Dutch, Belgians, Czechs, Hungarians, and a whole lot more. With this caution and this reservation, I recommend this movie. Plot, history, characterization, emotion, people you'll care about. They don't make movies like this anymore. We've seen Sex and the City, so now what? Kung Fu Panda? Don't Mess with Zohan? I think we'll stay home.

Not best written (choppy) yet realistic melodrama depicting very real times during WWII. Movie is notable for Anna Sten's brief appearance (admittedly, one of my favorites) who was more or less done-in by Hollywood yet never failed to deliver superb performances. Either Glenn Ford's first or one of his first movies. Depressing yet worth seeing. Good luck, because I think I got one of the last VHS copies around.

I would recommend this film to be watched by anyone. I first saw it at a teenager and have never forgotten it. The film handled a hopeless situation in a very humane and touching way. With the problems in Kosovo now the film is just as up to date as it was in 1941 when it was made. I would give this film a 10+ rating in my opinion.