Vacation from Marriage

Vacation from Marriage, also known as Perfect Strangers in the United States, is an engaging British drama from 1945. The film stars the renowned actors Robert Donat, Deborah Kerr, and Glynis Johns. Directed by Alexander Korda, the film is a well-woven narrative of romance, personal growth, and transformation set against the backdrop of World War II.

Robert Donat portrays Robert Wilson, an introverted and soft-spoken man enduring routine work in an unexciting office job. Deborah Kerr plays the role of Kathy Wilson, his equally dull and quiet wife who seems to live a mundane life cooking and tidying their small house. Their existence together is drained of any excitement or passion, living no vitality in their relationship nor any aspirations in their individual lives. Instead, their relationship is merely driven by routine rather than any deep fondness or love.

The early scenes of the movie effectively establish the tedious rhythm of the Wilson’s lives, painting a vivid picture of an uninspiring marriage stifled by boredom and stifling conventionality. But things take an abrupt turn when the ongoing global conflict of World War II interrupts their dreary existence, and they are both drafted into military service.

Six years pass and they are thrown into different directions. Robert enters the Navy where he changes from being a meek pencil-pusher into a rugged, decisive, and commanding officer. He faces numerous battles both within himself and against his enemies, stepping beyond his comfort zone and discovering sides of himself he never knew existed. On the other hand, Kathy grows out of her timid shell by joining the Women's Royal Navy. She transforms from a withdrawn housewife into a confident and fashionable woman who commands attention and respect. Isolated from each other, they both develop new personalities, gaining strength in their individual lives and learning to appreciate their own value.

The war separates them for a long time. However, it helps them realise the potential within themselves, which they might have never discovered if they had continued to live their pre-war, routine lives. During this period, they become intimately involved with other people, introducing Glynis Johns as Dizzy Clayton and Roland Culver as Richard, who propel their characters into their respective transformations.

After the war, they meet again at their old house, both shocked and confused about the other's evolution. But they discover that they barely recognise each other, having become more different than they could have expected. The second part of the movie explores how they grapple with these changes, both in themselves and each other, and if their relationship can withstand them.

Vacation from Marriage reveals a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, examining how an ordinary, boring couple metamorphosised into their best versions because of the war. It's fascinating how the film uses the backdrop of a global conflict to stage the transformational journey of its central characters and turns it into a narrative of enlightenment and personal liberation.

While Donat and Kerr shine in their roles with exceptional performances, the supporting cast doesn't lag either. Glynis Johns and Roland Culver provide the necessary spur for the transformation of Donat and Kerr's characters. The screenplay by Clemence Dane provides them with meaningful, impactful dialogue that compels the audience to stay invested in the story.

Wartime films often focus on the combat experience or the political view of war, but Vacation from Marriage is a refreshing take that focuses on the effects of war on the people and their lives. It also beautifully delves into the realm of marriage, exploring how circumstances can salvage a dying relationship.

Audiences will be drawn to the exceptional performances, the compelling narrative arc, and the unique perspective the film offers on war, relationships, and personal growth. The title Vacation from Marriage signifies not a break from marital life, but a break from the monotony and repression of the past, embracing change and growth. The film stresses the adage that sometimes, distance and time apart can bring you closer to your loved ones and yourself.