Year of Release: 1946Country of Origin: UK
Directors: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger
Cast: David Niven, Kim Hunter, Marius Goring, Roger Livesey, Raymond Massey
Plot outline: A British wartime aviator who cheats death must argue for his life before a celestial court (IMDb).
In the US the movie was released under the title Stairway to Heaven, which was derived from its prominent special effect: a broad escalator linking the real world to the other world. Reversing the convention of The Wizard of Oz, the switches between the bold colours of the real world and the stark B/W of the other world is ingenious. It works seamlessly and shows us visually just how much more vibrant life is. Special effects used are remarkable for a 1946 movie. The story is actually a bit cheesy and on paper it could be a disaster and in reality it could have been. But the movie is never clear if it is real or if it is all imagination and it doesn't matter. The plot allows plenty of nice touches as well as romance. David Niven is great as the squadron leader, Peter Carter. Kim Hunter is good as the radio operator, June. But the strength of the movie comes from its superb supporting cast: 1) Marius Goring as the soul collector, Conductor 71. He is by far the most interesting character, filling each of his scenes with his innocent lightheartedness, lightening up the movie. His charm contrasts so nicely with the seriousness of the rest of the characters. 2) Roger Livesey as his friend and also defender, Dr. Frank Reeves. He does one of the best performances of his career. 3) Raymond Massey as the prosecutor, Abraham Farlan. He is very passionate and convincing. The characters and plot development are very good and the attention to detail promotes a thoroughly believable fantasy. One scene that impresses me is the scene of the celestial court of the whole population of the other world ... when the camera zooms out, it reveals that it is as large as a spiral galaxy (!) It makes me smile, it makes me laugh, it makes me think, it makes me cry. It is as inspiring today as it was in 1946. Under rated on its initial release and by today's audiences, this movie is a beautiful piece of work. Watch it before you die.
My judgement: *** out of 4 stars
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