Pimpernel Smith details
| Format: | TBC DVD |
|---|---|
| Starring: | Leslie Howard, Mary Morris |
| Director: | Leslie Howard |
| Genre: | Drama - Period |
| Name | Discs | |
|---|---|---|
Pimpernel Smith |
TBC Feature |
DVD Information
| Run time: | 2 hours |
|---|---|
| Rental release: | Not currently released |
| Main languages: | English |
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Most helpful review
An excellent wartime film based loosely on the famous "Pimpernel" novel of the early 1900s
By roncoach (365 reviews) from suffolk , 31 Jul 2012[Highly rated reviewer]
This is such a memorable British film that I have seen many times over the years. It never fails to provide enjoyment.
Yes, it is a very old film, and blatant anti-Nazi propaganda
( which was so important to the War effort). Leslie Howard made many such anti-Nazi films but he is especially suited to the whimsical role in this very clever film which he also produced and directed.
And, of course, it was very appropriate for him as he had previously also starred in the wonderful 1934 film adaptation of the classic 'Scarlet Pimpernel', from which 'Pimpernel Smith' derives its whole concept.
But of course the 2 films can hardly be compared. The 1934 version, with the lovely Merle Oberon alongside Howard, of the famous classic novel is a love story+suspense thriller+French Revolution period adventure; whilst 'Pimpernel Smith' lacks any love interest and concentrates very much on a comedic 'swipe' at the Nazis.
In its day it must have been a marvellous experience to watch this in cinemas at a time when there was still very much the threat of a German invasion. My Dad always told me that it stirred audiences at the time and became a firm favourite. I am not surprised.
Not all propaganda has to be vitriolic, scathing or intense; some, like this, can just make fun of the enemy , make people laugh at them and do a good job of making the 'master-race' look rather silly. Morale is boosted by this method; and any fear of the enemy is replaced by hilarious contempt.
But, wartime 'messages' aside, this is simply a very entertaining and enjoyable film which holds the viewers' interest from start to finish. And Leslie Howard is brilliant. And so is the performance by his German 'opponent' played by Fracis L. Sullivan.
A much-loved film which will always remain so.- Was this review helpful to you?
- (8) Yes |
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All reviews
(2)An excellent wartime film based loosely on the famous "Pimpernel" novel of the early 1900s
By roncoach (365 reviews) from suffolk , 31 Jul 2012This is such a memorable British film that I have seen many times over the years. It never fails to provide enjoyment.
Yes, it is a very old film, and blatant anti-Nazi propaganda
( which was so important to the War effort). Leslie Howard made many such anti-Nazi films but he is especially suited to the whimsical role in this very clever film which he also produced and directed.
And, of course, it was very appropriate for him as he had previously also starred in the wonderful 1934 film adaptation of the classic 'Scarlet Pimpernel', from which 'Pimpernel Smith' derives its whole concept.
But of course the 2 films can hardly be compared. The 1934 version, with the lovely Merle Oberon alongside Howard, of the famous classic novel is a love story+suspense thriller+French Revolution period adventure; whilst 'Pimpernel Smith' lacks any love interest and concentrates very much on a comedic 'swipe' at the Nazis.
In its day it must have been a marvellous experience to watch this in cinemas at a time when there was still very much the threat of a German invasion. My Dad always told me that it stirred audiences at the time and became a firm favourite. I am not surprised.
Not all propaganda has to be vitriolic, scathing or intense; some, like this, can just make fun of the enemy , make people laugh at them and do a good job of making the 'master-race' look rather silly. Morale is boosted by this method; and any fear of the enemy is replaced by hilarious contempt.
But, wartime 'messages' aside, this is simply a very entertaining and enjoyable film which holds the viewers' interest from start to finish. And Leslie Howard is brilliant. And so is the performance by his German 'opponent' played by Fracis L. Sullivan.
A much-loved film which will always remain so.- Was this review helpful to you?
- (8) Yes |
- No (0)
Poignant and exciting
By Richard Lamey from Manchester, England , 21 Jun 2007I really liked this film and was shocked that it came out as early in the war as it did- it seems so knowing and wise and its description of evil is profound. It is an exciting film and very cleverly done and beautifully acted. It's a cliche to say that they don't make them like this anymore, and I do find a lot of classic films dull, but this is a great triumph which makes you feel glad to be alive.- Was this review helpful to you?
- (2) Yes |
- No (0)
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