Cast
View AllGeoffrey Hibbert
as Peter Henderson
Harry Welchman
as Lincolns Inn
Greta Gynt
as Sylvia Meadows
Joyce Howard
as Mary
Edward Rigby
as 'Tich'
Bransby Williams
as Ben
George Carney
as Charlie
Eliot Makeham
as Inky
Mark Hambourg
as 'Chopin'
Paul Martin
as Chris
Raymond Lovell
as Cartwright
John Longden
as Stuart Gordon
Wally Patch
as 'Nobby'
Edgar Driver
as 'Oily'
Bernard Miles
as Cricket Steward
Crew
Director
- John Baxter
Producer
- John Baxter
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Common Touch 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 John Baxter 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 1941, 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 The Common Touch took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 104 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1941, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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
Details
- Release Date: November 15, 1941
- Runtime: 1h 44m