Review of The Edge of the World (1937) by Jesse L — 09 May 2010

(DVD) (First Viewing, 5th Powell film).

[b]The Edge of the World[/b] is the film that legendary British filmmaker Michael Powell considered his first great film, and it remained one that held significant meaning to him (he even appeared in it in a small role). Though some aspects of the film are rather amateurish, it's a very capably directed film and is a respectable kickoff to a celebrated career.

The story involves a small group of people on a tiny Scottish island who are finding their traditional way of life slowly dying off. The young people are leaving the island for better work and wages on the mainland, those who are left are finding it impossible to carry on without their help. This conflict leads to a showdown that results in disaster, tearing a young couple apart in the process.

The black and white cinematography is stunning, using the steep rock cliffs and rolling grass to full effect (it definitely hints at the renowned cinematography that would mark later Powell films made in collaboration with Emeric Pressburger).

Reviewer comments over at IMDb say that this film is for Powell completists only, but such a pronouncement greatly underestimates the film's quality. Though in some ways [b]Edge of the World[/b] is a slight film, clocking in at a mere 75 minutes, I found it entertaining and would definitely recommend it to anybody interested in giving it a look.