Cast
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Ingrid Bergman
as Lady Henrietta Flusky
Joseph Cotten
as Sam Flusky
Michael Wilding
as Charles Adare
Margaret Leighton
as Milly
Cecil Parker
as The Governor
Denis O'Dea
as Mr. Corrigan
Jack Watling
as Winter
Harcourt Williams
as The Coachman
John Ruddock
as Mr. Potter
Bill Shine
as Mr. Banks
Victor Lucas
as The Reverend Smiley
Ronald Adam
as Mr. Riggs
Francis de Wolff
as Major Wilkins
G.H. Mulcaster
as Dr. Macallister
Olive Sloane
as Sal
Crew
Director
- Alfred Hitchcock
Writer
- Margaret Linden
- John Colton
Producer
- Alfred Hitchcock
- Sidney Bernstein
Reviews
CinemaSerf
There are two ways to look at this rather procedural Victorial melodrama: either it's Hitchcock very much off form from his usual perfection; or it's Hitchcock demonstrating that he has other strings to his bow than his much lauded suspense thrillers. I prefer the latter! Michael Wilding arrives in New South Wales looking for his fortune. He alights on "Mr. Flusky" (Joseph Cotton) as a likely business partner, and at a dinner discovers that he has history with his wife, the alcoholic "Lady Henrietta" (Ingrid Bergman). The story tries to reconcile their respective back stories with their current scenarios and the three - alongside a solid performance from Cecil Parker as the Governor - create a decent enough melodrama that isn't half bad, even if I found Bergman - her usual emotional and over-performing self - a bit pathetic after a while.
Jul 9, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Under Capricorn 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 Alfred Hitchcock 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 1949, 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 Under Capricorn took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.5 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 171 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2017 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1949, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Under Capricorn 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 Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Him, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Under Capricorn offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Smuteční hudba za padlé hrdiny and 12 and Holding explore similar territory, Under Capricorn stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 8, 1949
- Runtime: 1h 58m
- Budget: $2,500,000
- Revenue: $1,500,000
Where to Watch
