A Matter of Life and Death is a 1946 British romantic fantasy drama film directed and written by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. The film stars David Niven, Kim Hunter, Roger Livesey, Raymond Massey, and Marius Goring.
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The film tells the story of Peter Carter (Niven), a Royal Air Force pilot who is shot down over the English Channel during World War II. Carter is rescued by a British aircraft carrier, but he is then transported to a mysterious afterlife where he is put on trial by a celestial court for his life. The court is presided over by the Angel of Death (Massey), who argues that Carter should be allowed to live because he has unfinished business on Earth. However, the Angel of Destiny (Goring) argues that Carter should die because he has no right to interfere with the natural order of things.
The film is a complex and thought-provoking exploration of the themes of life, death, and free will. It is also a visually stunning film, with some of the most innovative special effects ever seen at the time.
A Matter of Life and Death was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has since been recognized as one of the greatest British films ever made. It was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
The film has been praised for its originality, its complex characters, and its beautiful visuals. It is a truly unique and unforgettable film experience
Coming out right at the end of World War Two some see it as a commentary on the British Empire in the coming days. I was very impacted by the brilliantly done trial scene.
Mel Ulm
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