Writer and director Stephen Poliakoff’s latest film, “Glorious 39,” centers on family conspiracy in pre-World War II Britain. The thriller stars Romola Garai, Bill Nighy, Julie Christie, Jeremy Northam and a host of other celebrated British actors. Garai plays the main character, Anne Keyes, an up-and-coming actress and adopted daughter of a politically active aristocratic family in 1939. On the cusp of war with Germany, tensions between political parties rise — as well as tensions in the Keyes family.
Things begin to go wrong for Anne when she comes across some records at her family’s country home, which turn out to be audio recordings of secret political meetings rather than the latest jitterbug. As she further investigates the records, she uncovers a pro-appeasement movement to placate Hitler and avoid Britain going to war. Anne’s discoveries do not go unnoticed, however, and some of her friends and loved ones are murdered in the process. Anne fears for her own life, but is determined to expose the pro-appeasement group and their underhanded dealings by reaching Winston Churchill, who has not yet been named Prime Minister. In a surprise ending, all is revealed as to who the members and murderers are and how Anne tries to survive.
Garai’s performance is the highlight of the movie; she conveys her emotions with all of her body and draws the audience into her mindset and actions. Nighy’s presence in the film was a bit lackluster, perhaps due to his limited role. While the beginning and middle of the film were quite thrilling to watch, the plot began to unravel toward the end. Halfway through the movie, Britain declares war on Germany, so what is the point of continuing the pro-appeasement movement? Also, while the twist ending is a surprise, the final scene falls flat with a resounding “thud.” Yet, overall, this historical psychological thriller is a must-see for Brit flick fans.
Originally released in the UK in November 2009, “Glorious 39” did not reach American audiences until January 2010 at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. The film is currently available on Netflix and YouTube. To learn more about “Glorious 39”, click here.