Feuer über England (1937)
50KFeuer über England: Directed by William K. Howard. With Flora Robson, Raymond Massey, Leslie Banks, Laurence Olivier. During the reign of Elizabeth I, a young man’s fervent devotion to the crown and to his sweetheart, a lady-in-waiting, lead him to battle for England’s victory over the Spanish Armada in 1588.
“Even considering the 1937 production here, this is a classy effort on every front: acting, sets, script, plot, historical accuracy, etc.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eMy major reason for seeking out this film was a compilation of the works for the incomparable Vivien Leigh. While she is stunning here, adding her usual vitality to any of her roles, there are many other strengths to admire in u0026quot;Fire Over England.u0026quot; This is certainly the best of her early works with Laurence Olivier.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe film only runs about 90 minutes but moves quickly with a plot that makes perfect sense. The whole production is quite believable, and Olivier is stronger here than in u0026quot;That Hamilton Woman.u0026quot; Flora Robson steals the show. Her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I reveals a complex woman with a big heart. She is brilliant, wise, cunning, ruthless, and forgiving all in one package. These terms describe both Robson and the Monarch she played.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eGo out and get this one. You will be glad you did.”
