Saraband For Dead Lovers [DVD]

In 17th century Hanover, a young girl (Joan Greenwood) is betrothed against her will to the uncouth and cruel Prince George Louis (Peter Bull), who is in line to inherit the throne of England. When a countess (Flora Robson) who wields behind the scenes power in court circles brings her latest consort, a Swedish Count (Stewart Granger), to the court, there is an immediate chemistry between the Princess and the dashing Swede. However, this passion will lead to tragedy for all involved. Based on the historical romance novel by Helen Simpson, this is a lush rich looking Technicolor film (the first for Ealing studios) whose art and set direction earned an Oscar nomination. There are enough court intrigues and political manipulations to keep one interested in the proceedings but as a romance, it's more fizzle than sizzle. The lovely Greenwood was always better at playing vixens rather than wan damsels and Granger is at his dullest. The best performance is delivered by Flora Robson, looking more glamorous than usual, as the plain and aging countess whose revenge destroys even herself. Directed by Basil Dearden. Douglas Slocombe (THE LION IN WINTER) did the Technicolor cinematography and the strong score by Alan Rawsthorne. With Francoise Rosay, Anthony Quayle, Michael Gough and Megs Jenkins.The Optimum DVD is a nice looking if slightly faded transfer which doesn't quite illustrate the film's original Technicolor hues.

If its got Stewart Granger in it, it can't be anything but good. This is a love story that we only dream about. A love story where fighting to the death is a way of showing just how much in love he was with the lovely Joan Greenwood.It portrays a woman born into royalty and a loveless marriage whose only escape from unhappiness was a man accidently coming into her life and subsequently falling in love with him. The rules regarding an unhappy marriage during that period does indeed give much more freedom to the husband than it does to the wife; especially within the royal household!Beautifully acted by both; a must see film. Don't forget your tissues.

I came to this film through a book reference and it was quite new to me. I enjoyed it though the story line was sometimes confusing eg.when Stewart Grainger went to war. If you enjoy a good old fashioned yarn, this should appeal.

Stewart Granger was a consummate actor who was rarely given film roles that portrayed his talents to the full or brought him the stardom he deserved. Although this film is based around a somewhat mundane plot, he plays his part well. On the whole, I like the film, but much preferred him in 'The Prisoner of Zenda' which provided a much stronger storyline.

The subdued technicolor is perfect for setting the mood of this excellent film. Very British in production, It's almost as if it was deliberately aimed at being as un-Hollywood as possible. There is no fantasy or glamour here, instead an energy and realism that's rather startling in a film of this age. Acting is of the high standard you would expect from the cast. Joan Greenwood and Stewart Granger are superbly convincing as the tragic couple, with Granger rating this as one of the few films of which he was proud. Brace yourself for the ending!

This was purchased from the cut price DVD listings. It is an OK film watchable on a rainy Saturday afternoon if nothing else to do. Now that I have watched it, I am not sure I will do so again for some months. I think it was only £5.

Almost a very good drama with unusual casting and imaginative production. Not expected from Ealing. Dark episode of affair of George I's wife and lover and her exile.

He was my favourite actor when I was a teenager and I wanted to see this film again because it has been a long time since I saw it originally