Third Time Lucky

Third Time Lucky is a highly tantalizing British drama film from the late 1940s. Released on January 29, 1949, the movie was directed by the exceptionally talented British filmmaker Gordon Perry, while Terence Young wrote the screenplay. The film presents a charmingly led ensemble cast, starring Glynis Johns, Dermot Walsh, and Charles Goldner in the primary roles, alongside the likes of Harcourt Williams, Yvonne Owen, and Helen Haye.

The narrative of the film begins with Joan Burns, played by the charismatic Glynis Johns. Joan is a woman who seems to be forever tainted with bad luck. The film centres around the concept of luck and how it was traditionally considered to be attached with certain elements like objects or people, and in Joan's case, she is convinced her 'unlucky charm' is her fiancé.

Dermot Walsh, playing the character Mike, is the rebellious and somewhat opaque man who is engaged to Joan. Amidst the plethora of misfortune that surrounds them, Joan maintains her steadfast belief that Mike is the source of all her bad luck, and a distinct correlation between his presence and her string of unfortunate events seems increasingly evident as the narrative unfolds. Mike, however, is not entirely convinced and responds to her accusations with scepticism and dismissal.

In contrast, Charles Goldner, as Lucky, is a gambler who is very superstitious, a trait which rather juxtaposes Mike's perpetual scepticism. Lucky’s solace exists within the realm of luck and chance, and he consistently seeks to surround himself with 'lucky charms'. On a chance encounter with Joan and hearing about her strange predicament, he believes he has found a talisman in her, a means to offset his losing streak at the casinos. Consequently, he persuasively convinces Joan to accompany him on gambling trips, finding that her presence indeed brings him good fortune.

However, the presence of Mike always seems to erase the good fortune Joan brings to Lucky. Evidently, the narrative efficiently emphasizes this recurring pattern of Joan’s good luck turning sour whenever Mike is nearby.

Third Time Lucky is a hybrid cinematic experience, combining elements of drama, romance, and suspense. Each character is carefully etched, with distinct personalities manifesting diverse perspectives on the common thread of luck. The concept of luck intertwines all their lives, posing questions about its existence, influence, and exploitation. At its core, the film investigates the natures of personal relationships when built on precarious foundations - mirroring the unpredictability of the concept of luck.

Glynis Johns, with her enchanting on-screen charisma, breathes life into Joan's character, portraying her quest for harmony amidst her life's chaotic turbulence with utmost authenticity. Dermot Walsh, in his role as Mike, brilliantly personifies the sceptic, revealing the dissension and complexity embedded in his tenuous relationship with Joan. Charles Goldner offers an equally compelling performance as Lucky, successfully capturing the anxiety and obsession of a highly superstitious gambler.

The cinematography of the film is elegantly crafted to highlight the changing fortunes and the emotional journey of its characters. The film combines the serene visuals of everyday life with the atmospheric energy of the gambling world to provide a contrasting backdrop against which the narrative evolves.

The film's unique blend of romance, suspense, and the exploration of luck and superstition makes it a vintage classic that will undeniably captivate audiences. The performances of Glynis Johns, Dermot Walsh, and Charles Goldner are the crowning glory of this classic British melodrama, which remains a testament to the alluring storytelling of the golden era.

Whether you are a hardcore fan of classic cinema or someone interested in the exploration of metaphysical concepts in film, such as 'luck', 'unexpected twists of fate', and 'serendipity', Third Time Lucky presents an exciting cinematic adventure that marries intriguing thematic probes with elegant performances. Embark on an emotional journey filled with lucky streaks, unexpected turns, brilliant performances, and a storytelling style unique to a by-gone time.