“The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp” is a cinematic masterpiece that follows the life of a British army officer, from his youthful idealism to his eventual acceptance of the changing world around him. The film is a poignant exploration of the transformative power of time, as we see Blimp grow from a brash young man into a wise and experienced elder statesman. Through stunning cinematography and powerful performances, “The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp” explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle to maintain old-fashioned values in a rapidly changing world. This film is a must-see for anyone who values timeless storytelling and vivid character development.
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Review
In 1943, British filmmaker Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger released a movie that would go down in history as one of the greatest British films ever made – The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp. It tells the story of Clive Wynne-Candy, a British officer who goes from a naive, young soldier to a battle-tested veteran. He is portrayed by three different actors who each bring their own unique perspective to this complicated character.
The film starts with the aged and overweight Colonel Blimp being mocked by a radio commentator for his archaic views on war. The viewer is transported back in time to see Clive Wynne-Candy as a young officer during WWI. Throughout the movie, we see him evolve from an impetuous young man to an experienced veteran who understands the true cost of war.
One of the most interesting aspects of The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp is how it shows the bond between soldiers. Candy befriends Theo Kretschmar-Schuldorff, played by Anton Walbrook, during WWI. They have vastly different viewpoints on life but they understand each other as soldiers. Theo is later repatriated back to Germany; Candy mourns for his friend but understands his duty as a soldier.
Another powerful scene in the movie takes place during WWII when Candy visits Berlin during wartime. He meets Theo’s son who has grown up under Hitler’s regime and completely rejected his father’s views on war. This scene highlights how political ideology can destroy friendships and how pointless war can be – themes that are still relevant today.
The acting in this film is phenomenal with standout performances from Anton Walbrook as Theo Kretschmar-Schuldorff and Deborah Kerr as three different characters throughout Candy’s life – Edith Hunter, Barbara Wynne, and Johnny Cannon. One particular quote from Kerr’s character Edith has become iconic: “War starts at midnight!”
The score, composed by Allan Gray, is also fantastic. It features music from the time period and original pieces that capture both the pomp and circumstance of military life as well as the intimate moments between characters.
The cinematography in The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp is breathtaking. The camera work captures the beauty of England, the devastation of war, and the emotions of the characters with equal skill. One notable scene shows Candy shaving off his mustache – a symbol of his lost youth and innocence.
The film was not initially well-received by critics when it was first released. Some thought it was too long and others didn’t appreciate its message. However, it has since gained a cult following and is now considered a classic.
The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp was filmed during WWII which meant some scenes had to be shot on sound stages due to bomb damage outside. Despite this setback, Powell and Pressburger were able to create an incredible film that still holds up today.
The movie won multiple awards including a BAFTA for Best British Film in 1944. It was also nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards that year.
In terms of production value, The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp is impressive even by modern standards. The special effects used to age Candy throughout the movie are seamless and add depth to his character development.
One criticism of the movie is its length – clocking in at just under three hours, it can be considered too indulgent. However, I believe every scene serves a purpose in building Candy’s character arc.
The dialogue in this movie is cleverly written with witty banter between characters that keeps you engaged throughout. Scenes where Candy debates politics over dinner with his friends are particularly enjoyable.
Overall, The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp is a masterpiece that tells an important story about war, friendship, aging, and politics. Its messages are still relevant today, making it a timeless classic. With its incredible acting, memorable score, and beautiful cinematography, this film is a must-see for any cinema lover.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 163
- Release : 1943-07-26
- Genre : Drama, Romance, War, History
- Cast : Roger Livesey as Major General Clive Wynne-Candy, Deborah Kerr as Edith Hunter / Barbara Wynne / Angela “Johnny” Cannon, Adolf Wohlbrück as Theo Kretschmar-Schuldorff, Roland Culver as Col. Betteridge, James McKechnie as Spud Wilson
- Crew : Georges Périnal as Director of Photography, Alfred Junge as Production Design, Emeric Pressburger as Director, Emeric Pressburger as Producer, Emeric Pressburger as Writer
- Popularity 9.74
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : The Rank Organisation, Independent Producers, The Archers
- Summary : General Candy, who’s overseeing an English squad in 1943, is a veteran leader who doesn’t have the respect of the men he’s training and is considered out-of-touch with what’s needed to win the war. But it wasn’t always this way. Flashing back to his early career in the Boer War and World War I, we see a dashing young officer whose life has been shaped by three different women, and by a lasting friendship with a German soldier.
- Tagline : An unforgettable story of forty gallant years.
