10/10
A history lesson in this fine drama of the Napoleonic era
23 January 2002
By accident I stumbled onto this early movie on a TV channel. It is most interesting for me because I never gave a thought to money matters regarding the Napoleonic wars, it being remembered only in a military light, the clashing of arms and ships, etc., so I've learn a lot from seeing this historical film, give and take a few inaccuracies. It's seldom found in the history books unfortunately.

Loretta Young is a vision of loveliness and her tender scenes with Robert Young bring a pleasant interlude of gentle romance in a tale that is mostly dominated by the wheelings and dealings of high finance and the wars of the time.

There is much emphasis on the plight of the Jewish people and their burden over the centuries of not being accepted in society. It brought to mind the family history of the composer Felix Mendelssohn whose ancestry converted to Christianity in order to join the mainstream and blend in socially. I would think that from today's viewpoint it would seem an odd gesture to do so, and hopefully human beings are becoming more understanding of each other without resorting to such sacrifices.

I particularly liked the lengthy scene where Nathan speaks courageously about financing and war, then concludes with, "We stand for peace."

A very enlightening film with excellent dialogue and fine dramatic acting throughout. I only regret knowing so few in the cast.
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