Wedding Rehearsal

Wedding Rehearsal is a comedic gem from the early sound period of British cinema, released in 1932. The film stars Roland Young, George Grossmith, and John Loder, and is helmed by the critically acclaimed director, Alexander Korda. This delightful film cleverly weaves a narrative that offers a sneak peek into the lives of British aristocracy, while also serving as a social commentary on marriage, class disparity and social expectations.

Roland Young delivers an outstanding performance as Reggie, the Marquis of Buckminster. Referred to simply as 'Buck', he is the loveable and reluctant bachelor at the film's centre. Occupying an esteemed position in the British nobility by way of his deceased father, Buck is a well-to-do aristocrat with a carefree and fun-loving personality. He spends the majority of his time carousing in the company of his friends rather than attending to the duties that come with his title.

However, his lavish lifestyle comes under threat when Buck's financial situation takes a turn for the worse. To complement the issue, his grandmother, The Duchess of Bridgewater, who controls a share of the family fortune, insists that he must marry a woman of 'good breeding' before she agrees to provide any financial assistance. Buck's looming bankruptcy forces him to give in to his grandmother’s whims. But the task of finding an eligible bride among London's high society proves more challenging than he had initially thought.

George Grossmith Jr. portrays the role of the family solicitor, Keppel. Keppel is a reliable confidant and friend to Buck, guiding him through the intricate world of matrimonial interviews, knowing all too well the demands of the upper echelon of British society. However, balancing friendship and legal obligations is not a simple task for Keppel.

John Loder as Lord Hugh delivers a stellar performance, lending to film a sense of fun mixed with social decorum. As Buck's best friend, he accompanies him in numerous escapades as Buck begins his search for a suitable bride. Simultaneously, Lord Hugh serves as a voice of reason and chides Buck for his excessive partying and unwillingness to grow out of his perpetual bachelorhood.

The film dives deep into the rich period tapestry of the 1930s, with elaborate set designs, costuming and screenplay that bring the aristocratic world to life. Scenes unfolding in grand ballrooms, elaborate manor houses, and packed courtrooms grant viewers a comprehensive look into the lives of London's upper class. Throughout the film, director Alexander Korda skillfully maintains a balance of luminous wit, charm, and a subtle critique of early 20th-century aristocratic norms.

Wedding Rehearsal serves up a slew of delightful characters, including a string of potential wives for Buck, each hailing from different social environments and bearing distinctive personality traits. From the uber-rich to the destitute damsels, these women add to the comedy, the drama and the uncanny charm prevalent throughout the storyline.

However, the heart of the story presents a broader commentary on individuals' struggles against societal pressure to conform to familial and class expectations. Amid the hilarity and fun, the film subtly highlights the conflict between personal desires and societal roles and beautifully questions the rigid social norms of the period.

In the end, Wedding Rehearsal is a timeless film that brings together comedy, romance and social critique in a refreshing mix. Its appealing characters, engaging storyline, and memorable scenes make it worth watching, while simultaneously showcasing the sophisticated prose of the time, paired with the authentic air of London’s high society. This film is a must-watch for those who appreciate classic cinema, witty humour and a glittering glimpse into the lives of Britain's elite in the 1930s.