Went the Day Well?

Went the Day Well? is a 1942 British war film directed by Alberto Cavalcanti and produced by Michael Balcon under the banner of Ealing Studios. The cast is led by the accomplished actors Leslie Banks, C.V. France, and Valerie Taylor.

The film is a notable cinematic relic from the World War II era, taking place within the setting of the quintessential English countryside village of Bramley End. Primarily pastoral and peaceful, the village is suddenly disrupted, swarmed by the evil forces of Nazi Germany during World War II, henceforth shaking the very calm foundation of this idyllic community. The narrative is framed as a flashback told by the village's postmistress, Mrs. Collins (played by Muriel George), allowing such a relatable, everyday figure to enact the role of the story's chronicler.

The narrative begins mundanely, with Leslie Banks playing the affable, well-to-do landowner Oliver Wilsford, a character whose decidedly English traits are sharply contrasted with the menacing threat posed by the foreign forces. The story takes an interesting turn when the village becomes host to a company of British soldiers who reveal themselves to be German paratroopers in disguise, turning the tranquil rural locale into both a battleground and a prison.

C.V. France, in the role of Reverend Ashton, fosters a sense of unity among the villagers, inspiring them to take courageous action in the face of impending destruction. Amidst the chaos, Valerie Taylor plays the maiden Peggy Pryde, a character who embodies the resilience and strength of the British folk, maintaining a level-headed approach despite her dire circumstances.

This gripping storyline is enhanced by exceptional cinematography that captures the beauty of the English landscape, while simultaneously portraying the tension and terror that grips the village. The film strikes a delicate balance between the charming aesthetic of the English countryside and the dark undertones of the war pervading its serenity.

"Went the Day Well?"'s engaging character development gets the audience personally invested in their plights. The resilience of the English folk, in the face of horrifying circumstances, is portrayed brilliantly and provokes both empathy and admiration. Leslie Banks stands out with his performance, showcasing a range of emotions from amiable charm to calculated menace.

Although the film was written and produced at the height of World War II, there's a remarkable contemporaneity to the plot and its moral implications. The story explores themes of communal resilience, loyalty, deception, and courage under fire. It challenges the perception of war as only a battlefront reality, also spotlighting the home front, where regular civilians play integral roles in the resistance.

The movie manages to become not just a war, action, or suspense film, but also a pertinent social commentary on the broader implications of war on local communities. However, it never loses its quintessentially British nature—there are subplots of village life and love stories intertwined with the strain of the warfare, invoking moments of humor, warmth, and bitter poignancy.

Furthermore, the film does adhere to the conventions of typical war films, generating moments of suspense and surprise. There are ample scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat as the villagers try to navigate their changed world.

As an exemplary piece of mid-twentieth-century cinema, "Went the Day Well?" reveals another side of World War II - that of ordinary citizens bravely combating the enemy within their own homeland. The film was indeed not just meant to entertain but also to invigorate and encourage its audiences to stand strong amidst the turmoil of war. This mix of engrossing story, riveting performances, and a historical backdrop makes "Went the Day Well?" a rewarding watch.

From a contemporary perspective, the film also serves as a poignant reminder of World War II's wide-ranging impact, highlighting the indomitable spirit of the common folks and their unwillingness to surrender in the face of oppression. In its own way, it continues to inspire a sense of national pride and shared community—an enduring testament to the human spirit.