An Ideal Husband
An Ideal Husband

Movie spotlight

An Ideal Husband

1958
Movie
100 min
German

Sir Robert Chiltern is a successful Government minister, well-off and with a loving wife. All this is threatened when Mrs Cheveley appears in London with damning evidence of a past misdeed. Sir Robert turns for help to his friend Lord Goring, an apparently idle philanderer and the despair of his father. Goring knows the lady of old, and, for him, takes the whole thing pretty seriously.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Director: Anthony AsquithGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Sir Robert Chiltern, a prominent Member of Parliament, is blackmailed by the ambitious Mrs. Cheveley, who possesses a letter revealing his past fraudulent financial dealings. Sir Robert's wife, Lady Chiltern, is an advocate for high moral standards and would be devastated by this revelation. He enlists the help of his witty friend, Lord Goring, to navigate this dangerous situation and protect his reputation.

Critical Reception

The 1958 film adaptation of Oscar Wilde's play was generally well-received for its faithful translation of Wilde's witty dialogue and social satire to the screen. Critics praised the performances, particularly those of Glynis Johns and Leo Genn, and the elegant production values. It was seen as a charming and sophisticated romantic comedy, though some felt it lacked the sharp edge of earlier adaptations.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its faithful adaptation of Oscar Wilde's play and sharp dialogue.

  • The performances were highlighted as a strong point, bringing the characters to life.

  • Seen as a visually appealing and sophisticated romantic comedy.

Google audience: Audience reception for this specific 1958 adaptation is not readily available through Google's user review aggregation. However, Oscar Wilde's works are generally appreciated for their wit and social commentary.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

This 1958 film adaptation is one of several screen versions of Oscar Wilde's celebrated play, which was first published in 1895 and adapted for the silent screen multiple times before this technicolor production.

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