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The Master of Bankdam

Where to Watch The Master of Bankdam

1947

The Master of Bankdam is a stirring and emotive drama, based in 19th Century Yorkshire, directed by Walter Forde, with a cast that includes luminaries such as Anne Crawford, Dennis Price, and Tom Walker. This 1947 classic film provides an in-depth analysis of industrial revolution England, making it an excellent piece for history and period film enthusiasts alike.

The heart of the story is the Bankdam family, who operate a woolen mills business in the grim moorlands of West Riding, Yorkshire. Their saga begins from the early days of the industrial revolution and spans across two generations, unraveling the dynamic interplay between characters as they wrestle with circumstances, ambitions, passions, and personal dilemmas. The plot particularly focuses on the family's struggle for success amidst growing competition, technological disruptions, and internal conflict.

Anne Crawford plays the role of Charlotte Kesteven, who brings a dash of femininity and romance to the grim narrative. It is through her character that the audience gets a refreshing perspective on the laborious world of wool mills. Her role balances the plot between family dynamics and the gruelling business world, establishing a crucial character arc that viewers will undoubtedly appreciate.

Tom Walls, best known for his work in comedy, gives an impressive performance as the patriarch of the Bankdam family, Simeon Crowther. Simeon is a strict and tough-minded businessman, dedicated to ensuring that the family business thrives even in times of immense socio-economic challenges. His character encapsulates the dream of the self-made man, keenly representing the driving force of the industrial revolution.

Next, embodying the character of Zebediah, the eldest son, and supposed heir to the family business, is Dennis Price. Price masterfully portrays his character's internal struggle between carrying on the family legacy and pursuing his passions. His performance provides an in-depth and humanistic insight into the burdens of expectation and inheritance, adding a depth of emotion and dilevably to the story.

Set amidst the backdrop of the industrial revolution, The Master of Bankdam does not shy away from presenting the hardships that the working class faced. The film's harsh portrayal of the laborious and perilous nature of mill work serves as a bold reminder of the social complexities of the era. Several subplots are woven into the narrative, shedding light on workers' rights, economic disparity, and the push for improved labor conditions.

The movie's screenplay was written by Roland Pertwee and based on the popular novel 'The Crowthers of Bankdam' by Thomas Armstrong. The screenplay cleverly adapts the story's intricate plot and complex characters for the cinema. It adds authenticity to the period setting with superb dialogues, brimming with Yorkshire dialect, thus making the viewing experience genuinely immersive.

The Master of Bankdam showcases excellent cinematography of the time, with its picturesque portrayal of the Yorkshire landscape beautifully juxtaposed with the grim realities of the industrial era. Forde’s filmmaking artistry captures the essence of the industrial revolution like never before. His adept handling of the socio-political issues, the human dynamics, and the visual aesthetics is commendable, creating a compelling narrative that holds the viewers' interest until the very end.

The movie's musical score accentuates the film's dramatic moments and perfectly complements the underlying emotions of the scenes. It faithfully resonates with the narrative, adding depth and poignancy to it.

In summary, The Master of Bankdam is a prospect for those captivated by historical dramas. The powerhouse performances of Anne Crawford, Dennis Price, and Tom Walls bring the film's rich characters to life, while Walter Forde's vision crafts the industrial revolution's raw spirit and complex human dynamics. This film offers much more than just entertainment; it's an immersive journey that transports the viewer to a defining epoch in history. It is a rich tale of ambition and love, set against the grandeur and grim reality of the industrial revolution.

The Master of Bankdam is a Drama movie released in 1947. It has a runtime of 101 Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 6.8..

How to Watch The Master of Bankdam

Where can I stream The Master of Bankdam movie online? The Master of Bankdam is available to watch and stream, buy on demand, download at Amazon Prime, Amazon. Some platforms allow you to rent The Master of Bankdam for a limited time or purchase the movie for downloading.

6.8/10
Director
Walter Forde
Stars
David Tomlinson, Anne Crawford
Genres