Principal cast: Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, Sara Allgood.

Dir: Alexander Korda

SYNOPSIS

Essentially a romance movie, it still manages some elements of intrigue, sensuousness (not surprising given Vivien Leigh’s beauty) and “Boy’s Own” heroics.

A down-and-out Lady Hamilton (Leigh) is arrested in France, and while in jail recounts her extraordinary life as the lover of Lord Horatio Nelson (Olivier). How historically accurate it is, I do not know.

Whilst it is her story, it is shown very much in a third person narrative that fleetingly outlines her questionable background, but more fully explores the foul means used to induct her into high society, her heights of influence/passion/resolve/scandalous behaviour, and the depths of her despair after Nelson’s death (though the last matter is hardly touched upon).

The two principal actors’ performances are certainly competent, with Leigh shining through; other roles pale somewhat in comparison though Lady Hamilton’s mother (Allgood) provides a typically great cameo.

Fans of British comedy skit shows may be happy to know that the “Kiss me… Hardy” scene is handled with much decorum.

VISION

B & W in 4×3 full frame format and despite not being remastered, the picture is clear and basically free from ‘noise’. I was not particularly struck by any continuity or editing problems.

SOUND

Single channel mono through centre speaker; annoying, but easily sorted through the use of the Stereo button. Overall sound clear with no discernable problems; though during the only battle scene there was a significant DROP in volume at one point which I found quite off-putting.

EXTRAS

None, apart from a five page, 20-chapter scene selection menu. This did not phase me at all.

OVERALL

Enjoyable but not ‘grabbing’ account of an historical ‘affair of the heart’ competently performed and directed. This is essentially a Vivien Leigh star vehicle, and she didn?t let me down.