Mrs. Warren's Profession (1972)

An independent young woman (Penelope Wilton) is visited by her mother (Coral Browne) who she has had little interaction with through out her growing up years. But when she discovers how her mother earned the money to support and educate her, she finds her belief system challenged. Based on the play by George Bernard Shaw and directed by Herbert Wise. Shaw's attitude toward prostitution was controversial for its day and although written in 1893, censorship wouldn't allow it to be publicly performed until 1902. In its own way, it's a feminist play although her daughter's reaction seems rather priggish today, even as the daughter represents an independent strong woman who finds no need for a man or romance to complete her life. This production is rather straightforward with the two actresses (Browne, Wilton) giving convincing performances. The male roles aren't as interesting so one can excuse the rather antiseptic performances. It's a bold play that still resonates today. With Robert Powell, Derek Godfrey, Richard Pearson and James Grout.