The Winslow Boy

I like talky adaptations of plays, and a somewhat off-beat Donat sells his character. This is no 'The Browning Version', though.

Well-acted count room drama with Robert Donat as a eccentric barrister as the main attraction. Doesn't reach any massive climaxes in court, but was a quality study of British justice.

A bit quaint, but characteristically fascinating and expertly written Terence Rattigan play, based on true events, and excellently directed by Asquith. Not as great as Pygmalion or The Browning Version, but better than The Importance of Being Earnest.

Those expecting a traditional courtroom drama will be let down. The actual trial takes up a scant few minutes, and the climax doesn't even occur onscreen, nor is it fully satisfying. Instead the focus is on the effects on the family, the media circus, and the noble notion of "let right be done". Donat is surprisingly lifeless, but the supporting actors really shine. It's a perfectly watchable movie with excellent dialogue, but ends up feeling a bit insubstantial and disappointing.