The History of Mr. Polly
Quiet and somewhat direction-less, Alfred Polly uses the money he inherits from his father to marry and to set up shop in a small town. His heart is in neither of these enterprises and he eventually resorts to desperate measures to break free. His random wanderings in the countryside lead him to a new opportunity that just might be what he's been looking for all along.
Insights
Plot Summary
Arthur Penhaligon Polly, a timid young man, feels trapped in a life he never wanted, working in a draper's shop and enduring an unhappy marriage. He dreams of a more exciting existence, inspired by his fantastical stories. Eventually, he finds the courage to escape his mundane reality and embark on a series of misadventures that lead him to discover himself.
Critical Reception
The film was generally well-received, praised for its faithful adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel and John Mills' nuanced performance as the titular character. Critics appreciated its gentle humor and sympathetic portrayal of a man seeking fulfillment.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for John Mills' sensitive portrayal of Mr. Polly.
- Appreciated for its faithful adaptation and gentle humor.
- Seen as a charming, character-driven British comedy-drama.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's heartwarming story and John Mills' ability to capture the character's quiet desperation and eventual small triumphs.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the semi-autobiographical 1910 novel of the same name by H.G. Wells, which reflects Wells' own unhappy childhood and early career experiences.
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