This is one of those very rare cases in which the entire production has a stamp of the definitive about it. Any other production you are ever to see on stage or screen will very likely pale in comparison. An exceptional cast was assembled from the cream of the British theater of the time and under Anthony Asquith's direction, they one and all deliver superb and definitive performances of Wilde's wittiest play. Pity the actor in future productions who has to obliterate the memory of this bunch.
Michael Redgrave and Michael Dennison share a delightful chemistry and Joan Greenwood with her uniquely dulcet tones and Dorothy Tutin are the ideal Gwendolen and Cecily. Margaret Rutherford is, as always, a delight and of course there's Dame Edith Evans.
Evans so totally embodies Lady Bracknell that even the likes of Judi Dench and Joan Plowwright, (particularly weak), were distinctly lacking in tackling the role. Evans' haughtiness betrays an occasional self knowing humorous twinkle of the eye. It's an hilarious and masterly performance and a treasure to behold.
A production Wilde himself would no doubt have adored.
Michael Redgrave and Michael Dennison share a delightful chemistry and Joan Greenwood with her uniquely dulcet tones and Dorothy Tutin are the ideal Gwendolen and Cecily. Margaret Rutherford is, as always, a delight and of course there's Dame Edith Evans.
Evans so totally embodies Lady Bracknell that even the likes of Judi Dench and Joan Plowwright, (particularly weak), were distinctly lacking in tackling the role. Evans' haughtiness betrays an occasional self knowing humorous twinkle of the eye. It's an hilarious and masterly performance and a treasure to behold.
A production Wilde himself would no doubt have adored.