George and Margaret

Synopsis

"George and Margaret" is a 1940 British comedy film directed by George King, based on the popular stage play by Gerald Savory. The story revolves around a middle-class family anticipating the unexpected arrival of two old friends, George and Margaret, for dinner. What begins as a cordial evening soon unravels into a series of comedic misunderstandings, social awkwardness, and character revelations. The film explores themes of social pretenses, family dynamics, and the quirks of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of pre-war British society. It features strong performances, including Marie Lohr, who skillfully portrays the family matriarch grappling with the chaos caused by the impending visit.

Cast

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  Marie Lohr

  Alice

• 

  Judy Kelly

  Frankie

• 

  Noel Howlett

  Malcolm

• 

  Oliver Wakefield

  Roger

• John Boxer

  Claude

• 

  Ann Casson

  Gladys

Reviews

"George and Margaret" has received a mixed reception from contemporary and modern audiences. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating of 5.6/10, indicating average viewer appreciation. Some critics have praised the film's witty dialogue and clever adaptation from stage to screen, highlighting the cast's effective delivery of comedic timing. However, others find the humor somewhat dated, and the pacing slow by today's standards. For example, while not rated on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic due to its age and niche appeal, retrospective reviews often note that the film's charm lies in its portrayal of middle-class British life in the 1940s more than in groundbreaking cinema. Film historians appreciate Marie Lohr's performance as a highlight, but note that the plot's reliance on social manners and situational comedy may not resonate with all viewers. Overall, "George and Margaret" appeals to fans of classic British theatre adaptations and vintage comedies, but may feel less engaging to a general modern audience.