Directed: Alfred E Green

Year: 1929

Nominated: Best Film, Best Actor – George Arliss

Won: Best Actor – George Arliss

Plot in 25 Words: A Prime Minister gets his way via a series of scams and true British grit. Support from his loving wife helps him achieve his goals.

In My Opinion: This may not be a popular opinion but wow I found this film dull. So dull that even though I watched nearly three weeks ago I still haven’t gotten around to actually writing about it! There was the odd moment of humour but not a great deal and I certainly didn’t notice any drama. It was just a lot of talking about a subject I didn’t really grasp. Not paying the most attention at the beginning was a big mistake!

One thing I really did like was the relationship between Disraeli and his wife, Lady Beaconsfield. There was obvious chemistry between the two but that’s hardly surprising as they were played by real-life husband and wife duo George and Florence Arliss. Their genuine affection for each other comes across so clearly, from small conversations to the grand finale when he mistakenly believes her to be dead.

I absolutely loved her calling him ‘Dizzy’ and I really hope that was a true depiction of Lady Beaconsfield and not something added by the filmmakers. That, and his amazing hair. That quiff needs to be set in bronze and put on display everywhere.

The trouble with biopics is the dialogue. I can never tell if it’s a genuine quote or a bit of artistic license. Maybe films could put a little red dot in the corner of the screen if it’s a direct quote! The quote here which has me pondering a brilliant one from Disraeli: “England will sink into insignificance, a Belgium at sea.” It’s so scathing and brilliant, I really, truly hope it’s a direct quote.

Joan Bennett as Clarissa Pevensey was a breath of fresh air. She wasn’t willing to merely be a rich man’s wife. That’s two films in a row now with a strong female. Very impressive work!

Star Performer: Well it just has to be Arliss. For the final scene alone he stole the show.  Quiet dignity and hiding it in order to fulfill his prime ministerly duties.

Overall: Clever writing and above average acting but the plot and film just weren’t my thing. A definite one viewing film!