Figuring whether Orson Welles is brilliant or terrible in this film would take at least 5 more viewings. What is clear is that these 1950s melodramas (particularly the Southern fried versions) were more honest about sex, wounded masculine pride, repressed female desire and how ridiculous situations are taken seriously by whole societies than most films today.
Paul Newman and Orson Welles chewing scenery are the highlights - but the chemistry between Newman and Woodward is electric.
We need way more melodramas told today with this level of craft and widescreen vistas. And more honesty too.