Review of How Green Was My Valley (1941) by Kevin R — 14 Jul 2015
Interesting look at life in Welsh coal-mining town in the early-1900s.
The story of a family, the Morgans, who live in a Welsh coal-mining town, told through the eyes of the youngest son, Huw (played by a 12-year old Roddy MacDowall). The father and four oldest sons all work in the colliery. Pretty much everything centres around the colliery - it is the life blood of the town, and the source of pain, ill-will and death. In addition, we see the relationships between the people in the town, how they develop and change.
An interesting drama, showing the social impact on a town when it is dependent entirely on a single industry. The relationship side is interesting too.
However, in trying to cover as much of what happens in the town as possible, there is a lack of focus. While the ending is reasonably profound, a much greater point could have been made. The landing is a bit soft.
Great performances all round.
How Green Was My Valley went on to win the 1942 Best Picture Oscar, beating out Citizen Kane (amongst others) to the award. Not that it is better: it can probably thank William Randolph Hearst's campaign against Citizen Kane for the award.
This review of How Green Was My Valley (1941) was written by Kevin R on 14 Jul 2015.
How Green Was My Valley has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
