I have seen Brief Encounter more times than I know for sure. It is on TCM for the preface to the Oscars. I wasn't going to watch it, but I was drawn in, as always. This is film making. Real film making, not like most of the the stuff we tolerate today. That two "average" people meet by chance and fall in love is a plot to which all of us other average people relate. That these two can have a most passionate love affair without actually having sex is a tribute to the writing, direction and the acting. I tear up every time I watch, knowing the ending but still hoping for them to somehow stay together. Yes, they are committing "adultery" - but they have lived the stayed and somewhat boring stereotypical British life and find a glimmer of passion in spite of it. I recommend this film to anyone who wants a true experience in classic film making.
Review of Brief Encounter
