The Clandestine Marriage
The Clandestine Marriage

The Clandestine Marriage

1999Movie90 minEnglish

A period film, set around an English country house whose owners want to arrange a marriage of convenience between their elder daughter and an aristocratic heir of a hard-up noble family.

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Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Christopher MilesGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Lord Ogleby, an aging and wealthy nobleman, plans to marry a much younger woman, Miss Sterling, to secure his family's future. However, his plans are complicated by the arrival of his nephew, Sir John Woodville, who falls in love with Miss Sterling. A series of misunderstandings, disguises, and witty exchanges ensue as the characters navigate societal expectations and their own desires.

Critical Reception

The film adaptation of Sheridan's play received a mixed to positive reception. Critics often praised the faithfulness to the source material and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Anthony Quayle. However, some found the pacing occasionally slow and the humor of the original play not always translating effectively to the screen.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its period detail and adherence to classic comedic structure.
  • Performances, especially from veteran actors, were a highlight for many.
  • Some critics felt the wit of the original play was somewhat dulled in adaptation.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The film is based on a 1766 comedy play of the same name by George Colman the Elder, with significant contributions to the writing attributed to David Garrick.

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