This film kept me in suspense not knowing what the outcome would be. The acting, period atmosphere and historical recreation are all outstanding. The Winslow Boy is directed by Anthony Asquith and has a stellar cast led by Cedric Hardwicke, Robert Donat, Margaret Leighton and others. The film evokes a period of time when honour, self-sacrifice and the heavy arm of authority ruled countries such as England in the name of the common good.
The setting is the Edwardian Era of early 20th century England and into this time and place, we find a youth who has been expelled from a naval academy for stealing. The family believes he is innocent and his recently-retired father, distant from his children, ageing and afflicted with arthritis, sees an opportunity to strike a blow for his youngest child against injustice. In jurisprudence, it is called let right be done.
In this heroic effort, Arthur Winslow the father, played by Cedric Hardwicke, is backed by the strong conviction of his daughter Kate (Margaret Leighton) and Sir Robert Morton who takes on the government of the day (Robert Donat).
Thirteen-year old Ronnie Winslow is expelled from his academy for theft. The evidence against him is real but the son is adamant that he is innocent. Arthur Winslow believes his son and takes the matter to his lawyer and eventually to the Cabinet. He is paid a visit by Robert Donat, as Sir Robert Morton, a Member of Parliament, who takes up the case.
One of the most hard-hitting scenes is a ruthless cross-examination. The boy maintains his innocence and the MP leaves their home convinced of the boy's innocence. The badgering is relentless and had me on the edge of my seat as Donat hurls one accusation after another at the boy, who does not bend during the ordeal.
Sir Robert takes a shine to Kate, Arthur Winslow's daughter, who is played by Margaret Leighton. She superbly performs the role and risks her engagement by pressing the MP to proceed with the case, which has now become a national sensation.
There is a dramatic showdown in the House of Commons and the First Lord of the Admiralty, egged on by Sir Robert, agrees to let the case go to court. The final outcome has added emotion as the senior Winslow, and Sir Robert are tired and ailing.
This is an excellent period piece as well as high drama with great acting by the leading players and those in supporting roles, particularly Kathleen Harrison, the housekeeper. The era is evoked with scenes taking place on golf courses and men's clubs where politicians discuss matters of state, not to mention the churches, concert halls and railway stations. The nation's affairs are dominated by the suffragettes and the Irish question. All-round great entertainment. Highly recommend.
