Firstly I point out that I have not read the book, hence my title. I have no doubt the book is fantastic too, although I think it's an advantage to solely judge the film, as that's what interests us here.
Garbo is sensational as the title character, capturing brilliantly a woman torn apart by the loves of her life. The film deals with the extra marital affair of Anna and Vronsky, who must face the consequences of their actions. Greta Garbo is mesmerising, from her opening scene ( a stunning take of the train smoke clearing to reveal her for the first time for Voronsky to behold) to her final scene. Garbo has a truly consummate talent of revealing the characters thoughts through her eyes especially, and expressions and gestures in general, which has never been equalled before or since by any perrformer, in my humble opinion. Fredric March is great as her lover , as is Basil Rathbone as her estranged, merciless husband. Freddie Bartholomew puts in a fine performance too, as her young son, with some very memorable scenes with Garbo. Maureen O'Sullivan also shines as Kitty, a pretty almost innocent young lady who can't compete with Anna's attraction.
A powerful, emotional film that I know will always stay with me. Thoroughly recommend this.