The Calendar

The 1948 movie "The Calendar" is a captivating drama film that intertwines elements of suspense, social issues, and emotional conflicts. It stars notable actors such as Greta Gynt, John McCallum, and Raymond Lovell. Directed by Arthur Crabtree and written by Bernard Vincent and Jeffrey Dell, the movie is a fascinating adaption of the play by Edgar Wallace.

In this film, Greta Gynt plays the role of Sheila Morgan, a woman of charm and allure, who becomes central in a complex web of manipulation and cunning. Grounded in the acting style of the late 40s, Gynt's performance beautifully mirrors the cultural attitudes of the period marked by enduring conventionality and emerging modernist critiques. Her portrayal is significantly marked by a sense of genuine adaptability and versatility as she navigates the labyrinth of her circumstances caused by societal pressures and deceptive schemes.

On the other hand, John McCallum plays as Captain Rodney Hunter, a man caught in a difficult moral dilemma that arises from emotional entanglements and ethical considerations. McCallum delivers a powerful performance that showcases a unique blend of subtlety and intensity, helping to construct a character dynamically multifaceted and inherently flawed.

Raymond Lovell, renowned for his portrayals of urbane, sometimes villainous characters, gives an engrossing portrayal of Clive Oliver, a sly and clever racehorse owner. The actor possesses a natural charisma that he rules over each scene, building a character with memorable charm and dishonesty.

"The Calendar" revolves around the world of horse racing and gambling, set against the backdrop of England's high society life after World War II. The narrative takes a compelling look at the strictly stratified British class system of that time, which allows for several layers of intrigue and plot twists to unfold. A rich tapestry of characters with their ambitions, corruption, selfishness, and redemption forms the heart of the narrative.

The movie opens with Captain Rodney Hunter and Sheila Morgan involved in a complicated relationship. Their lives take a drastic turn when they get entwined with the cunning Clive Oliver, who manipulates them for his gains in the high-stakes world of horse racing. The plot quickly thickens, and the audience is pulled into the web of deception and suspicion surrounding every player in the game.

Audiences are taken on a captivating journey as each character deals with the repercussion of their actions while grappling with their inner demons. "The Calendar" often skirts the edges of law and ethics, exposing the dark corners and the highs and lows of high society. It dissects the societal norms of the time, including the hierarchy of the class system and the constraints it imposes on people, causing them to often choose between their happiness and societal expectations.

While being a period piece and distinctly rooted in the post-War British lifestyle and social system, "The Calendar" remains a timeless exploration of human frailties, desires, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve their goals. The film also provides thought-provoking commentary on different facets of morality and immorality within society, poignantly portrayed through its diverse set of characters.

Strong performances from a solid cast, impressive cinematography, and tight scriptwriting are highlights of the movie. The director, Arthur Crabtree, skillfully uses the camera to paint a realistic portrait of the post-war era, complete with its grit, glamour, and moral complexities. The suspense is palpable throughout the film, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats till the very end.

"The Calendar" is a must-watch for all film enthusiasts who appreciate classic cinema, not only for its thrilling narrative but also its impressive performances and the nuanced representation of Britain's high society life during the Ethical Revolution after WWII.

In sum, this classic film is a powerful exploration of manipulation and morality amidst the high stakes world of horse racing. With a strong cast giving riveting performances, "The Calendar" is an absorbing drama that holds up remarkably well over 70 years after its initial release. Intriguing, intense, and thought-provoking, the film is a testament to the charm and enduring appeal of classic cinema.