“Anthony Adverse” (1936) Directed by Mervyn LeRoy, Based on the Novel by Hervey Allen
Key Points
Cast: Fredric March, Olivia de Havilland, Claude Rains, Gale Sondergaard, Edmund Gwenn
Overview:
“Anthony Adverse” (1936) is a sweeping historical drama based on Hervey Allen’s sprawling novel. Directed by Mervyn LeRoy, this film captures the tumultuous journey of its titular character, played by Fredric March, against the backdrop of 18th-century European turmoil.
Anthony Adverse (1936) Plot Summary
The story begins in Leghorn, Italy, where Spanish nobleman Don Luis (Claude Rains) kills his wife’s lover in a duel, leading to her death during childbirth. The child, named Anthony, is left at a convent and later adopted by his grandfather, John Bonnyfeather (Edmund Gwenn), who gives him the surname “Adverse” due to his difficult life.
Anthony grows up to become a successful businessman but faces numerous challenges as he navigates through the upheavals of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. He falls in love with Angela (Olivia de Havilland), a young opera singer, and their secret marriage adds layers of emotional complexity to his already chaotic life.
Performances and Characters
- Fredric March as Anthony Adverse: March delivers a solid performance, though some argue Errol Flynn might have brought more flair to the role.
- Olivia de Havilland as Angela: De Havilland portrays the aspiring opera singer with grace, her voice dubbed by Diana Gaylen.
- Claude Rains as Don Luis: Rains shines as the menacing nobleman, adding depth to the film’s darker elements.
- Gale Sondergaard as Faith Paleologus: Sondergaard’s portrayal of the ambitious housekeeper earned her the first-ever Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Visuals and Music
The film excels in its visual presentation, with Tony Gaudio’s cinematography bringing the 18th century to life in stunning black-and-white contrasts. The elaborate sets, including a full-scale African slave village, contribute to the film’s grand scale. Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s lush, award-winning score underscores the epic nature of the story, enhancing its emotional impact.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Advantages:
- Rich Visuals: The cinematography and set design are exceptional, capturing the era’s essence.
- Strong Performances: The cast, particularly Rains and Sondergaard, deliver memorable performances.
- Epic Score: Korngold’s music elevates the film’s dramatic moments.
Disadvantages:
- Convoluted Plot: The story can feel disjointed, with numerous subplots and characters.
- Pacing Issues: At 141 minutes, the film’s length and episodic nature can make it feel overly long.
Key Themes and Moments
“Anthony Adverse” explores themes of love, loyalty, and survival against a backdrop of historical upheaval. Key moments include Anthony’s daring adventures in Africa, his heartbreaking separation from Angela, and the race to secure his inheritance in Paris.
“Anthony Adverse” is a visually stunning and ambitious film that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. While the plot may be convoluted, the film’s epic scale and rich historical context make it a compelling watch. Despite its flaws, it remains a testament to Warner Bros.’ ability to produce grand historical dramas during Hollywood’s Golden Age.
