Review of Rembrandt

Rembrandt (1936)
10/10
Stunning Laughton performance
27 May 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Just a short review here. I had not seen this film but bought it on the whim to suddenly want to see Laughton....had seen him in Mutiny and was of course very impressed. But this film shows Laughton's greatness even more. There are at least 3 and maybe 4 scenes here where Laughton reads portions of the Old Testament to people around him. He reads quietly and with a world weary reflection in his voice. In moments I was overcome with shivers down my neck. It was incredible to hear that voice. I read recently that he had a knack for being able to hold huge audiences totally spell bound while he read something or other. I can see why. I can only think of a few others, Orson Wells, Richard Burton who could entrance the audience just with the subtle use of a quiet voice. Oh that the modern acting world had such talent. But we do not have anyone of Laughton's ability working today.

This is a fantastic film that should be seen over and over again. I am so very thrilled to have chanced upon it. You simply cannot find a more moving portrayal of a great man by one of the finest actors in any generation. Wonderful entertainment and not to be missed.
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