Cast
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Ronald Colman
as Robert Clive
Loretta Young
as Margaret Maskelyne
Colin Clive
as Capt. Johnstone
Francis Lister
as Edmund Maskelyne
C. Aubrey Smith
as Prime Minister
Cesar Romero
as Mir Jaffar
Montagu Love
as Governor Pigot
Lumsden Hare
as Sergeant Clark
Ferdinand Munier
as Admiral Watson
Gilbert Emery
as Mr. Sullivan
Leo G. Carroll
as Mr. Manning
Etienne Girardot
as Mr. Warburton
Robert Greig
as Mr. Pemberton
Mischa Auer
as Suraj Ud Dowlah
Ferdinand Gottschalk
as Old Member
Crew
Director
- Richard Boleslawski
Producer
- Darryl F. Zanuck
Reviews
barrymost
This is one of Ronald Colman's lesser movies, as well as one of his lesser-known. But for all that, and the fact that it normally receives mixed reviews at best, it's not too bad. The film focuses more on the story and action rather than on deep characterization, but it's entertaining. It's dated, but watchable. Ronald Colman is great, as always, being one of the most dashing and distinguished actors of all.
Would I recommend? No, not like I would other Ronald Colman films (and he has done some fantastic stuff). But if you're already a devoted fan of his, you may want to give it a try. It really depends on individual tastes.
Sep 30, 2019
CinemaSerf
Ronald Colman isn't really anywhere near his best in this rather dry biopic of the founder of the British Raj in the 18th Century. He is embarrassingly spared the worst consequences of a duel in Britain and arrives in shame, as a lowly clerk, in a country still a collection of Princely states. It's when he becomes besieged, and his betters haven't a clue how to defeat their advancing enemy, that he emerges as a bit of a soldier and, soon married to "Margaret" (Loretta Young) he climbs the ranks of the East India Company adding wealth and prosperity to all he meets. It's his last visit that facilitates huge expansion of British rule but earns him the enmity of the petty back in London who wish to impeach him and rob him of his honour and his considerable wealth. His return home to face Parliament is the final insult to a man who had put his commitment to India ahead of just about everything else. Like most biopics, it's not especially critical of the man - and in ninety minutes there isn't really time, either. What it does offer us is a rather potted history of his life that might stimulate further reading, but in itself delivers little. He and Young must have commanded most of the budget for there are perilously few action scenes as the detail of his military successes are largely left to the inter-titles. It's nice to see Montague Love given a slightly bigger speaking part and if you're eagle eyed you might spot Cesar Romero in the turbaned guise of King Mir Jaffar, bit for the main part this is just a vehicle for Colman to go through the motions of an hero with some stilted dialogue supported by the sparing appearances of an unremarkable Young.
Feb 10, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Clive of India examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Richard Boleslawski brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1935, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Clive of India took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 105 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1935, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Clive of India shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Jonah, or the Artist at Work, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Clive of India subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Walking Tall and The House of Mirth explore similar territory, Clive of India stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 25, 1935
- Runtime: 1h 34m
