A character study depicting the life of Rembrandt Van Rijn at the height of his fame in the mid 1600s. Beginning with the death of his wife, Rembrandt's work takes a dark turn, which offends many of his patrons.
Acting
Laughton's voice alone could paint chiaroscuro.
Production
Korda builds Amsterdam you can practically smell.
Costume
Velvet, ruffs, and absolute commitment to the bit.
Director
Alexander Korda
Charles Laughton
Rembrandt van Rijn
Gertrude Lawrence
Geertje Dirx
Elsa Lanchester
Hendrickje Stoffels
Edward Chapman
Fabrizius
Walter Hudd
Capt. Banning Cocq
Roger Livesey
Beggar Saul
Herbert Lomas
Harmenzs van Rijn
Allan Jeayes
Dr. Tulp
John Clements
Govaert Flinck
Raymond Huntley
Ludwick
Abraham Sofaer
Dr. Menasseh
Laurence Hanray
Heertsbeeke
Austin Trevor
Marquis de Grand Coeur
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Laughton and Lanchester were married in real life; she plays his devoted maid while he romances Lawrence on screen.
Korda filmed during Britain's 1930s 'quality film' movement, using Rembrandt's commercial failure as subtle commentary on art vs. populism in cinema itself.
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