Front Page Story
| Industry | Film production |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1954 |
| Founder | Jay Lewis |
| Products | Films |
Front Page Story, alternatively titled Behind the Headlines, is a British drama from 1954 directed by Gordon Parry. The film features performances by Jack Hawkins, Elizabeth Allan, and Eva Bartok. The screenplay was crafted by Jack Howells and Jay Lewis, with production handled by Jay Lewis Productions and distribution managed by British Lion Films.
Plot
Grant, an industrious editor working in Fleet Street, opts to forgo a holiday with his wife Susan to address pressing news assignments. Among these are the eviction of a family following their mother's passing, a woman facing euthanasia charges, and a former reporter struggling with alcoholism who is tracking an atomic scientist. These narratives converge when a plane crashes, revealing that Susan was among the passengers. Grant uncovers that Susan planned to leave him for a coworker—yet it remains uncertain if she actually boarded the aircraft.
Cast
- Jack Hawkins as Grant
- Elizabeth Allan as Susan Grant
- Eva Bartok as Mrs. Thorpe
- Derek Farr as Teale
- Michael Goodliffe as Kennedy
- Martin Miller as Dr. Brukmann
- Walter Fitzgerald as Black
- Patricia Marmont as Julie
- Joseph Tomelty as Dan
- Jenny Jones as Jenny
- Stephen Vercoe as Craig
- Helen Haye as Susan's mother
- Michael Howard as Barrow
- John Stuart as Counsel for the Prosecution
- Bruce Beeby as Counsel for the Defence
- Guy Middleton as Gentle
- Ronald Adam as editor
- Henry Mollison as Lester
Production
Filming took place primarily in black-and-white at Shepperton Studios, supplemented by location shoots across London. The visual environment was shaped by art director Arthur Lawson.
Critical reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin observed that the movie strives to transcend "just another newspaper story," intertwining critiques of journalistic integrity with several plots that depend on established tropes. Jack Hawkins' performance as Grant received commendation, although the character’s implausible responsibilities somewhat diminished the role's impact. The depiction of London settings was effective, but Gordon Parry's direction, while adequate, did not exhibit a distinctive flair.
The New York Times remarked that although the film's concept held promise, its overall execution fell short.
TV Guide characterized it as "a clear-eyed glimpse behind the headlines at those who deliver the news."
Radio Times described the film as "comfortably dated, yet revealing of its era."
References