The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1939)
Grade: 91
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame" is an outstanding adaptation of the Victor Hugo novel, set in fifteenth century France. One of the biggest budget films of its era, the sets are imposing, the cast is first rate, and the script is excellent.
Charles Laughton is the Hunchback, deformed but spry and intelligent. He is a bellringer at the cathedral of Notre Dame. He falls in love with young gypsy Maureen O'Hara, who is initially terrified of him. Also in love with O'Hara is energetic poet/playwright Edmund O'Brien (in his film debut) and the Hunchback's father figure, brooding Frollo (Cedric Hardwicke). Other characters include the King of France (Harry Davenport) and the King of Thieves (Thomas Mitchell).
Davenport is an obscure supporting actor, but he has decent roles in three of the best films from the 1930s: "Gone With the Wind", "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", and "The Life of Emile Zola". His King Louis is gentle and open-minded, and France would still have a King today if they were all like him.
It is virtually impossible to say anything bad about this film. The acting (especially O'Brien) is a bit hammy at times, and it is difficult to believe that a gypsy woman could be the cause of so much chaos. But when a film is so entertaining and spectacular, all is forgiven. There are many rewarding moments, especially when the Hunchback swoops O'Hara off to Notre Dame, hoists her prone body over his head and cries 'Sanctuary' to the enormous, approving crowd. Now that is cinema!
kollers@mpsi.net http://members.tripod.com/~Brian_Koller/movies.html
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