Cast
View All
Agnès Laurent
as Madeleine Lafarge - The French Mistress
Cecil Parker
as John Crane M.A. Headmaster of Melbury School
James Robertson Justice
as Robert Martin / 'Bow Wow'
Ian Bannen
as Colin Crane The Headmaster's Son
Irene Handl
as Staff Sergeant Hodges
Raymond Huntley
as Reverend Edwin Peake
Kenneth Griffith
as Mr Meade
Thorley Walters
as Colonel Edmonds
Michael Crawford
as Kent
Henry B. Longhurst
as 2nd Governor
David Griffin
as Slater
Edith Sharpe
as Matron
Robert Bruce
as Mr Ramsay
Brian Oulton
as 3rd Governor
Scot Finch
as Edmonds, Head Boy
Crew
Director
- Roy Boulting
Writer
- Sonnie Hale
- Roy Boulting
- Jeffrey Dell
Producer
- Roy Boulting
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
A French Mistress represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Roy Boulting 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1960, 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 A French Mistress took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 301 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1960, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: August 25, 1960
- Runtime: 1h 38m