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» » John Halifax (1938)

Short summary

Adapted from the novel by Elizabeth Craik it tells the story of John Halifax who, despite humble beginnings, becomes a highly respected local businessman. As partner in a mill he weathers the turbulent economic times of the early 1800s.
Adapted from the novel by Elizabeth Craik it tells the story of John Halifax who, despite humble beginnings, becomes a highly respected local businessman. As partner in a mill he weathers the turbulent economic times of the early 1800s.

User reviews


  • comment
    • Author: Skyway
    This is a period drama from quota quickie director-producer George King.The film charts the rise of John Halifax from poverty to respected businessman and mill owner.The suffix to the film title is "Gentleman".Somehow he manages to overcome every problem by fairness ingenuity and turning the other cheek.Though even he nearly looses his temper when his blind daughter is trampled to death by a horse ridden by the nasty Lord Luxmore.The problem is that John Halifax is just too unbelievably nice.One just wishes that he would get angry once in a while The film climaxes with a bank under financial strain.John Halifax yet again comes to the rescue by opening a large account with the ailing bank.
  • comment
    • Author: Jonariara
    I am inserting reviews for all films I've seen that lack one, looks like I'm first to catch this early English film that has recently been screened on the excellent 'Talking Pictures' so here goes..... Watchable fairly straightforward tale of a boy from a poor background who becomes a successful and respected 'gentleman', though set slightly earlier in the early 1800's in the new Mill towns of England, there is a scene where the new, distrusted steam engine is introduced; the tale is very Victorian in attitude, progress through hard work and a 'Gentleman' is beholden only unto God; which reflects when it was written in 1856; This could have been very dull, but G.King is a decent director, so this is a watchable take on the beginnings of the modern world. PS the full title is John Halifax Gentleman
  • Cast overview:
    John Warwick John Warwick - John Halifax
    Nancy Burne Nancy Burne - Ursula March
    Ralph Michael Ralph Michael - Phineas Fletcher
    D.J. Williams D.J. Williams - Abel Fletcher
    Brian Buchel Brian Buchel - Lord Luxmore
    Elsie Wagstaff Elsie Wagstaff - Jael
    Billy Bray Billy Bray - Tully
    Hugh Bickett Hugh Bickett - Doctor Grainger
    W.E. Holloway W.E. Holloway - Mr. Jessop
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