Movielogr
High Treason (1929)
Directed by Maurice Elvey
Twitter Facebook Google+Science Fiction | Comedy | War
Overview
The year is 1940 and tension is growing between the empires of United Europe and the Atlantic States. A bloody border incident puts both sides on high alert.
Length 95 minutes
Actors
Jameson Thomas | Benita Hume | Humberston Wright | Basil Gill | Edith Barker Bennett | James Carew | Alf Goddard | Judd Green | Clifford Heatherley | Hayford Hobbs | Raymond Massey | Wally Patch | René Ray | Irene Rooke | Milton Rosmer | John Singer | Kiyoshi Takase | Henry Vibart
Viewing History (seen 1 time)
| Date Viewed | Device | Format | Source | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06/05/2013 | Movie Screen | Film | Theater | 6.5 stars |
| (Average) 6.5 stars |
Viewing Notes
Quite a special treat to get this screening, only the second time this restored print has been shown (the first time was actually at the Library of Congress in Culpepper, Virginia). This is nearly a blueprint for Dr. Strangelove with many of the same themes regarding war including the comedy beats. Such a bizarre little film that goes from dry humor to stark seriousness within the same frame then somehow transforms into a Christ allegory.
Also interesting the decision to make this a futuristic film yet set only a decade forward to 1940. Really enjoyed how they imagined that future. It would be great if this film could get a decent home video release so more people could see it it (would be right at home on KinoLorber). As the second official talkie out of Britain, it deserves a wider audience.
Big thanks to Northwest Chicago Film Society for taking a chance on this one sight unseen. Props to Patio Theater for providing the venue on late notice. Great to see a big crowd come out for this movie.
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