The movie is based on the novel "Olesya" (1898) by the Russian writer Aleksandr Kuprin and the story originally takes place in Southern Russia. Also, the leading role is played by the French actress of the Russian origin, Marina Vladimirovna (hence Marina Vladi as her screen name) Polyakova-Baidarova. Obviously, Russian literature could be a good source of dramatic material for the movie-making industry. And paradoxically, it is probably the most valuable resource (more valuable than oil or even gold) that could be obtained for free. It is free of copyright restrictions (for the most part) and is easy to find on the Internet.

Finally available on DVD, "The Blonde Witch" used to appear on television under its original title "The Sorceress" ("La Sorciere," a French-Italian co-production), where it must have been dubbed into English, though now seen only with subtitles (despite the various titles, it has no horror content whatsoever). Pittsburgh's Chiller Theater had a 20 year run airing double features of the classic Universal horrors, '50s cheapies, and more recent Hammer titles, introducing Paul Naschy to an American audience in the late '70s. Yet there was one season, 1969-70, where the show departed from its usual format to present a non horror feature up front, followed by a more conventional genre item. "The Sorceress" (1956) appeared on Nov 1 1969, preceded by another foreign title, Sophia Loren's famous "Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow" (1963), which must have disappointed monster loving kids but would surely warm the hearts of every red blooded American male watching. Maurice Ronet stars as a French engineer who journeys to Sweden to supervise the building of a road, and learns that his new boss is a beautiful widow (25 year old Nicole Courcel) with a small son. He is quick to notice her attractive legs during dinner one night, and she begins to think about him romantically. Just then, he stumbles upon a lovely innocent in the woods (17 year old Marina Vlady), whom the superstitious locals believe is an evil witch, raised alone by her grandmother in a remote cabin deep in the swamp. The girl is literally one with nature, and soon reveals that she does indeed possess magical powers, but is full of warmth and joy, never using them to do harm. It doesn't take long for curiosity to blossom into love, but their future remains in doubt, as even the workers begin to shun their new foreman. For such a rich and wistful storyline, I couldn't help but be somewhat disappointed by the ending, which seemed a bit too conventional; clearly a film where the viewer should watch and judge for themselves, it has left its mark ever since its initial release (were it not for its presence on Chiller Theater, I would never have found it).

Thanks to the other commentators for providing encouraging reviews, which prompted me to buy it, sight unseen, when I came across a DVD listing. I agree--a remarkable, endearing film, one that demands purchase. I need to have this film on my shelf for repeat viewings. The movie is beautiful to look at, the story is very moving--a magical experience. And Marina Vlady (whom I have admired in the past) is lovely beyond words in this film--this role expresses her unique look better than any other, just as she embodies Ina better than any other actress could have.The DVD, released by Ivy Video, is very nice, with a 4:3 aspect ratio. It includes a commentary track by Dan Yakir and a photo gallery. I found it at Movies Unlimited. Hurry and get it while it's available! Anyone seeking an enchanting experience won't be disappointed.

When I ran a film society in the 1960's this was one of our most popular shows. The film is very romantic and beautifully photographed. The atmosphere is elegiac and reminded me of the style of Les Amants. The Musical score is exceptionally tuneful and I can still remember the main theme 40 years later- it has just stuck in my mind! The female lead; Marina Vlady is very beautiful and enigmatic and the tragedy of her rejection and persecution as a witch by a village community in modern France seemed to me original and moving. It is a film about bigotry and intolerance presented with great power and poetry. I am amazed that it seems to have disappeared. I am sure that modern audiences would enjoy it if it reappeared on TV or on DVD.