![Glorious 39 [DVD] [2010]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51XfrhLseeL._SX300_SY300_QL70_ML2_.jpg)
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If you are in search of a standard synopsis, THIS is NOT quite THAT. But here's what I can offer & contribute as an American viewer...
'Glorious 39' develops somewhat slowly. It also may have potential to grow on U if given the chance. I will point towards a couple (unfortunate) flaws nagging in this well crafted film. But first...
***** STRENGTHS : There are many plenty of positive elements to highlight:
its subject matter, underlying texts, exceptional cast & performances, scenic' locations, mindful Hitchcockian flavors, wonderful costume, AND profound moments in dialogue.
~ Yet, there are 2 MORE 'coinciding' reasons that garner an 'Anomalous 5' star rating: ~
First, the performance of Romola Garai throughout. She is & has deservedly been widely recognized and acclaimed. No exception here. (In all fairness, I try and remain objective but I openly admit; THIS IS my favourite lead billing of my VERY favourite actress.) Nonetheless, her captivating film presence & portrayal is reason enough for one to consider a VISIT or REVISIT of this film & just appreciate it... :)
As Anne Keyes, Romola Garai carries the lead role & interprets her character in rhythmic stride. From the privileged world as the eldest (and adopted) daughter of a British Member of Parliament, she leads us through her psychological downfall. A victim of betrayal & treachery, her journey into a darkness remains in a perfect motion. Even a certain physical wear & tear is (eventually) displayed in part with subtle body language and 'guttural achings'.
Second and realizing it takes a team to succeed more so than ever here, the 'confinement' of Anne Keyes is Glorious 39's towering apex in story & presentation. We are presented with correlating sequences & a series of dramatic character scenes. And as an outcome of circumstances during her 'confinement' continues, it climbs even a RUNG HIGHER.
Take special note of the eye/door crevice scene about halfway through the 'confinement'. You'll soon find Anne engaged in anger, confrontation, desperation, frustration, sadness, helplessness and (possibly) a private surrender. It is a true struggle delivered in an effortless flow.
Subsequently, Writer/Director Poliakoff superbly captures Anne's 'LOOK of RESOLVE.' 'THE APEX'. THE MOMENT when all she's encountered CULMINATES perfectly in Romola Garai's face.
With a few minor adjustments in tying in the story line ,Glorious 39 could have ended right there... (sigh...) For those approximate 18 minutes, regardless of any shortcomings elsewhere, it stands as one of my absolute favourite slices of film drama. In some ways, they just may be...
***** WEAKNESSES: Aside from the POSSIBILITY of an acquired taste (what genre of art actually isn't?) or its somewhat slower pace, this film does suffer some drawback on more than one occasion from awkward attempts in believability. There are spot holes in script and at times its characters come across as over-directed or forced.
***** OVERALL: You can do much worse in experiencing a 2 hour + feature film. You can't do much better than a stellar Romola Garai.....accompanied with the supporting & basis elements around her, on all cylinders and in unison. I find Glorious 39 as engaging & entertaining as a movie can be. I still & will always luv this movie, any flaws (if @ all !), like NO OTHER. - An Anomalous 5.
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Simon
Good film - delivered on time!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 29, 2023
