An unexpectedly strong performance from most of the cast in this delightful, thoughtful film.
Edith Evans gave a low key, believable performance, far removed from the over the top, grandstanding appearances she became known for later on.
It was interesting to see and hear the very young Richard Burton, speaking and singing in his native tongue. It is easy to see how he rapidly rose in the firmament of acting stars but also sad to know that his wonderful voice would be ruined by his lifestyle.
Emlyn Williams brilliantly portrayed a small rural village and it inhabitants, which could have been found all over the U. K. where most of the inhabitants often had little control over their lives, (as it was and is elsewhere in the world). In the era the film was set, 'Progress' was king and the little people were ignored. A number of villages were flooded in order to create reservoirs for major and expanding towns. Many reservoirs have been constructed all over the U. K. in more recent times, some flooding villages and towns. The experience of the villagers in the film is mirrored still, in other countries e.g.Egypt and the Aswan Dam and more recently China and the Three Gorges Dam.
The majority of speaking parts were clearly played by actors who were fluent in Welsh, which was spoken extensively.
The film is understated, not flashy and reliant on big budget 'Disaster Movie' effects. It is about the people.
Edith Evans gave a low key, believable performance, far removed from the over the top, grandstanding appearances she became known for later on.
It was interesting to see and hear the very young Richard Burton, speaking and singing in his native tongue. It is easy to see how he rapidly rose in the firmament of acting stars but also sad to know that his wonderful voice would be ruined by his lifestyle.
Emlyn Williams brilliantly portrayed a small rural village and it inhabitants, which could have been found all over the U. K. where most of the inhabitants often had little control over their lives, (as it was and is elsewhere in the world). In the era the film was set, 'Progress' was king and the little people were ignored. A number of villages were flooded in order to create reservoirs for major and expanding towns. Many reservoirs have been constructed all over the U. K. in more recent times, some flooding villages and towns. The experience of the villagers in the film is mirrored still, in other countries e.g.Egypt and the Aswan Dam and more recently China and the Three Gorges Dam.
The majority of speaking parts were clearly played by actors who were fluent in Welsh, which was spoken extensively.
The film is understated, not flashy and reliant on big budget 'Disaster Movie' effects. It is about the people.