Kind Hearts and Coronets

There is an interesting article in the Telegraph online today about this classic film and its director Robert Harmer:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/5788804/Kind-Hearts-and-Coronets-60th-anniversary-of-a-classic.html

Kind Hearts and Coronets

I was reminded of this film masterpiece by Martin Edwards (link at the top of this page 'Do you write under your own name?') whose blog post of 19 June focused on the novel which gave rise to the film - Israel Rank by Roy Horniman. I have had this book on my wish list since I first saw the film and have never managed to track down a copy. Now Faber have just reprinted it in their Faber Finds series of forgotten masterpieces. Naturally I have ordered a copy.

The film showcases Alec Guinness playing all the ill fated members of the D'Ascoyne family and Dennis Price playing the murderer. It is a classic of its kind and while the plot may be slightly far fetched the acting of the main characters transforms it. The twist at the end is brilliant. If you haven't seen this black and white Ealing Studios film then you're in for a treat.

The picture shows Dennis Price as the murderer and the lady he later marries who is married at that point to a D'Ascoyne who is about to be blown up in his garden shed. Though it is some time since I last watched the film I believe she had money in her own right so in addition to the D'Ascoyne fortune he has the benefit of hers as well.