Cast
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Finlay Currie
as Old 'Mick-Mack'
Duncan Lamont
as Barney
Naomi Chance
as Molly
Hilda Fenemore
as Madge
David Hannaford
as Barney Wee
Edie Martin
as Gloomy Gertie
Gordon Whiting
as Young Kennie
Edward Chapman
as Works Manager
George Merritt
as Timekeeper
Eugene Leahy
as Old Worker
Pauline Winter
as Personnel Manager
Michael Bird
as Builder
Tony Kilshawe
as Manager
Kenneth Henry
as Labour Exchange Clerk
Herbert C. Walton
as First Old Man
Crew
Director
- Wolf Rilla
Writer
- James Forsyth
Producer
- Alfred Shaughnessy
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The End of the Road 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 Wolf Rilla 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 1954, 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 End of the Road took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 76 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 99 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1954, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: January 1, 1954
- Runtime: 1h 16m