I once made the mistake of watching the poorly cast color version of “The Barretts of Wimpole Street” from the 1950s. Thankfully, the original 1934 film is far superior. Charles Laughton’s portrayal of the overbearing father, Edward Moulton-Barrett, is so compelling that you might want to punch him every time he appears. Norma Shearer shines as Elizabeth Barrett, and Fredric March captures Robert Browning’s charm perfectly.
Key Points
A Glimpse into Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s Life
“The Barretts of Wimpole Street” does two things exceptionally well. First, it tells the story of a famous poet through intimate scenes. The film, based on Rudolf Besier’s stage play, gives us a glimpse into Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s life, her family dynamics, and her relationship with Robert Browning.
Elizabeth is a well-known poet in London, admired by Robert Browning. However, she is trapped in her father’s home, both by her illness and her father’s obsessive love. Mr. Barrett’s disdain for his other children keeps them all under his control. The brothers depend on him financially, while the sisters have no hope of leaving unless they marry—something their father forbids. The film paints a vivid picture of their dysfunctional family without lengthy explanations or flashbacks.
Intimacy of the Stage
The second strength of this film is its ability to maintain the feel of a stage play. Much of the action occurs in Elizabeth’s study, and director Sidney Franklin avoids the typical Hollywood flair. Many adaptations lose the intimacy of the original play by adding unnecessary scenes and effects. However, this film keeps the focus on the characters and their emotions, making it feel like we are witnessing a live performance.
The story remains compelling, and it hasn’t been remade since Franklin’s own color version in 1957. A doctor who visits Elizabeth states, “The will to live is better than a hundred physicians.” Elizabeth has lost her will to live under her father’s oppressive love. The film hints at the incestuous nature of their relationship, which the stage play explores more boldly. When Robert Browning enters the picture, we see the jealousy that complicates their love triangle.
Modern Themes in a Historical Setting
Interestingly, Elizabeth struggles to explain her family’s issues to Robert. She feels embarrassed and tries to shield him from her family’s dysfunction. Her reactions mirror those of modern women hiding abusive relationships or traumatic pasts. The characters’ emotions resonate today, even though the setting is historical.
The film excels in its portrayal of the era, with well-researched costumes, hairstyles, and sets. The performances by Fredric March, Norma Shearer, and Charles Laughton feel authentic and believable. This Hollywood film captures the intensity of the stage play by focusing on the small details that tell a larger story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “The Barretts of Wimpole Street” is a timeless classic that beautifully captures the life of Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Its intimate storytelling and strong performances make it a must-see for fans of drama and poetry. If you appreciate films that delve into complex family dynamics and relationships, this 1934 gem is worth your time.
So, if you’re looking for a film that combines rich storytelling with powerful performances, don’t miss “The Barretts of Wimpole Street.” It’s a cinematic experience that remains relevant, even decades after its release.
