Mrs. Miniver - The Oscar Project Part XV

It’s strange to think that the Academy Awards were still being presented during the Second World War. The war demanded sacrifice from everyone and I would have thought that things like movie awards would be something that people would not focus on. However, even in the 1940’s, Hollywood knew how to get people in the seats. The 1942 film “Mrs. Miniver” was about actions taken during World War II. But it is smart about it by not focusing on the American involvement in the war. In fact there are no battle scenes or war meetings. This movie is about how the war would affect everyday people.

“Mrs. Miniver” focuses on a Brittish family that is depicted as splendid people who have money problems but truly enjoy life. Eventually World War II begins and they must begin taking cover from the air raids. During this time the oldest son enlists in the Royal Air Force and falls in love and is married. The family still stays strong and continues living their life while each evening taking precautions against the bombing. Near the end of the film tragedy does eventually strike the family, but they use it to strengthen their resolve to not give up. The film does an excellent job of making the British seem like a very noble, giving and caring people, and the character of Mrs. Miniver becomes a very inspirational leader. It’s a moving story and is one that would motivate people to support the war effort.

Acting wise this movie belongs to Greer Garson. The rest of the cast does a splendid job, but when she is on screen the movie is hers. One can’t help but be drawn to her. There is a point in the movie when someone comments about how the look on her face could inspire someone to do the right thing, and it is totally believable. Direction wise I found no faults in the movie, however looking at it now it is very obvious that this was a movie with a mission to have America want to support the British people. And I think that this movie succeeded in that mission extremely well.

I think the movie could still do well if released today. However, it would need some changes to account for today’s audience. People today would not stand for a movie that is so obviously trying to manipulate them, the last shot of the movie encourages people to buy government bonds when they get their next paycheck. People would be screaming about this, but a few tweaks to the movie could change this. Overall the film gets 3.5 out of 5 stars.