The Howards of Virginia
The Howards of Virginia

Movie spotlight

The Howards of Virginia

1940
Movie
116 min
English

Beautiful young Virginian Jane steps down from her proper aristocratic upbringing when she marries down-to-earth surveyor Matt Howard. Matt joins the Colonial forces in their fight for freedom against England. Matt will meet Jane's father in the battlefield.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Director: Frank LloydGenres: Drama, History, Western, War

Plot Summary

Matt Howard, a Virginian of humble origins, rises through the ranks of society and politics due to his intelligence and ambition. Despite societal expectations and his own burgeoning success, he remains committed to democratic ideals and the fight for independence. His personal life is complicated by his love for Jane Peyton and his eventual marriage to Beverly. The film follows his journey through the tumultuous years leading up to and during the American Revolution.

Critical Reception

The Howards of Virginia was met with a mixed to positive reception upon its release. Critics acknowledged its epic scope and its attempts to portray a significant period in American history, with particular praise for Cary Grant's performance. However, some found the historical narrative to be somewhat romanticized or simplified, and the film's pacing was occasionally criticized. Audiences generally responded favorably to its dramatic elements and patriotic themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its ambitious historical narrative and Cary Grant's leading performance.

  • Noted for its exploration of early American political ideals and revolutionary spirit.

  • Some critics found the historical portrayal to be somewhat simplified and the film's length occasionally felt drawn out.

Google audience: N/A

Fun Fact

Cary Grant, known for his sophisticated roles, played a more rugged, frontier-like character in this film, which was a departure from his typical on-screen persona.

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