Cast
View All
Oskar Homolka
as Desius Heiss
Derek Farr
as Robert Graham
Muriel Pavlow
as Margaret Heiss
Manning Whiley
as Corder Morris
Diana Dors
as Mildred
Kathleen Harrison
as Mrs. Catt
Garry Marsh
as Major Elliot
Kenneth Griffith
as Archie Fellows
Jan Van Loewen
as Professor Vanetti
Johnnie Schofield
as Inspector Robson
Irene Handl
as Ruby Towser
Katie Johnson
as Woman in Shop
Vi Kaley
as Flower Seller
David Keir
as Gentlemen Customer
James Knight
as Publican
Crew
Director
- George King
Producer
- Alexander Korda
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Oscar Homolka is super in this crafty little crime noir. He portrays a reputable antiques dealer whose daughter "Margaret" (Muriel Pavlow) is a virtuoso violinist. Unbeknown to all, though, he also has another business fencing stolen jewellery with his friend Derek Farr. When his odious clark "Morris" (Manning Whiley) overhears one of their conversations and tries his hand at a little blackmail, things start to spiral out of control as he threatens to tell the young woman of her father's behind-the-scenes shenanigans. When he demands that he be allowed to marry her - well you can guess! George King keeps the pace of this moving along well, with Whiley really good as the scheming underling whose looming comeuppance is surely just a matter of time. The score - especially the Mendelssohn Violin concerto at the end, adds loads to the atmosphere of this superior thriller that has plenty to shout about. Rarely seen these days, but if you do come across it - give it a watch, it's a more substantial part for the star that is well worth a watch.
Jul 7, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Shop at Sly Corner 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 George King 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 1947, 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 Shop at Sly Corner took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1947, 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 Shop at Sly Corner shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Tea with Mussolini, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Shop at Sly Corner subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ghosts and Bloodbath explore similar territory, The Shop at Sly Corner 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: March 10, 1947
- Runtime: 1h 31m
Where to Watch
