A Canterbury Tale is a 1944 British film directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. It is a modern-day retelling of Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, set during World War II. The film follows three pilgrims on their way to Canterbury: British Army Sergeant Peter Gibbs (Dennis Price), U.S. Army Sergeant Bob Johnson (John Sweet), and a "Land Girl", Miss Alison Smith (Sheila Sim).
The three pilgrims are delayed in the small town of Chillingbourne when Bob mistakenly gets off the train. They soon find themselves drawn into a mystery involving a serial criminal who is putting glue in women's hair. Alison becomes the latest victim of the glue-slinger, and the three pilgrims must work together to solve the mystery and catch the culprit.
The film is a complex and multi-layered work that explores themes of faith, patriotism, and the English national character. It is also a visually stunning film, with some of the most iconic images in British cinema.
A Canterbury Tale is a unique and unforgettable film that is still relevant today. It is a celebration of the human spirit and a powerful testament to the power of community.
I loved the marvelous open of the play when the opening of The Canterbury Tales is read.
The spreading of glue into the hair of women is a very odd, creepy crime.
The film has a deep sense and love for English history. The impact of the on going war is a marvel to treasure.
Ohh, that does sound like a simple but disturbing crime.
ReplyDeleteI've not heard of this retelling but I enjoy them, generally.