Glamorous Night (film)
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Motion picture |
| Founded | 1937 |
| Founder | Brian Desmond Hurst (director) |
| Products | Drama film |
Glamorous Night is a British drama motion picture from 1937, helmed by director Brian Desmond Hurst. The film features performances by Mary Ellis, Otto Kruger, Victor Jory, and Barry MacKay. It is a cinematic adaptation of the musical Glamorous Night, originally composed by Ivor Novello. The narrative unfolds in a fictional European monarchy, focusing on King Stefan's struggle with his prime minister alongside his romantic involvement with the gypsy character Melitza.
Cast
- Mary Ellis portraying Melitza Hjos
- Otto Kruger as King Stefan
- Victor Jory in the role of Baron Lyadeff
- Barry MacKay playing Anthony Allan
- Trefor Jones as Lorenti
- Maire O'Neill in the role of Phoebe
- Anthony Holles as Maestro
- Charles Carson portraying Otto
- Felix Aylmer as the Diplomat
- Finlay Currie in the role of Angus MacKintosh
- Raymond Lovell as Ship's Officer
Critical reception
According to Sky Movies, while the storyline appeared somewhat antiquated, the film was recognized for its melodious score and sophisticated production quality. Victor Jory received acclaim for his depiction of the antagonistic prime minister, and Mary Ellis was noted for injecting vitality into her character despite debates over her authenticity. Barry Mackay's portrayal of an English oil prospector—originally enacted by Novello in the stage version—was also commended. In 1937, critic Graham Greene offered a mixed critique, labeling the film as "about as bogus as a film could be," yet he acknowledged Novello's efforts to modernize the work, alongside praising the cinematography, direction, and Ellis' compelling screen presence.