Cast
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Anna Neagle
as Florence Nightingale
Michael Wilding
as Sidney Herbert (Lord Herbert of Lea)
Gladys Young
as Mrs. Bracebridge
Felix Aylmer
as Lord Palmerston
Julian D'Albie
as Mr. Bracebridge
Edwin Styles
as Mr. Nightingale
Helen Shingler
as Parthenope Nightingale
Rosalie Crutchley
as Mrs. Sidney Herbert
Maureen Pryor
as Sister Wheeler
Mary Mackenzie
as Nurse Johnson
Henry Edwards
as Howard Russell
Andrew Osborn
as Dr. Sutherland
Clement McCallin
as Richard M. Milnes
Helena Pickard
as Queen Victoria
Arthur Young
as Rt. Hon. William Gladstone
Crew
Director
- Herbert Wilcox
Writer
- Warren Chetham-Strode
Producer
- Herbert Wilcox
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Lady with a Lamp 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 Herbert Wilcox 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 1951, 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 Lady with a Lamp took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 56 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1951, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Lady with a Lamp shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Riddle: Woman, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Lady with a Lamp offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Driving Miss Daisy and Romeo + Juliet explore similar territory, The Lady with a Lamp stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: September 22, 1951
- Runtime: 1h 50m
