The History of Mr. Polly (1949)
Synopsis of The History of Mr. Polly
H. G. Wells' non-fantasy efforts have, with the exception of Kipps, proven traditionally difficult to transfer to film. History of Mr. Polly occasionally suffers from too-close fidelity to its Wellsian source; one wishes that adaptor/director Anthony Pelissier could have "opened up" the story a bit more. Still, the film is impeccably cast: particularly good is John Mills as Alfred Polly, whose efforts to make a go in the business world continually come acropper. A humble draper's clerk, Polly is profoundly affected by a variety of personal relationships, most notably with colorful Uncle Jim (Finlay Currie) and his nagging wife Miriam (Betty Ann Davies). Ultimately, he finds happiness in an even humbler pursuit than the drapery business. Star John Mills' daughter Juliet shows up in a very minor role. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Theatrical Feature Running Time:
- 93 mins
Complete Cast of The History of Mr. Polly
- John Mills - Alfred Polly
- Finlay Currie - Uncle Jim
- Edward Chapman - Mr. Johnson
- Megs Jenkins - Plump woman
- Moore Marriott - Uncle Pentstemon
- Wylie Watson - Mr. Rusper
- Doris Hare - May Pant
- Irene Handl - Lady on Left
- Edie Martin - Lady on Roof
- Cyril Smith - Mr. Voules
- Juliet Mills - Little Polly
- Wally Patch - Customer
- Michael Ripper
- Sally Ann Howes - Cristabel
- Betty Ann Davies - Miriam
- Diana Churchill - Annie
- Shelagh Fraser - Minnie
- Gladys Henson - Mrs. Larkins
- Miles Malleson - Old gentleman
- Dandy Nichols - Mrs. Johnson
- Lawrence Baskcomb - Mr. Rumbold
- Ernest Jay - Mr. Hinks
- Dennis Arundell - Clergyman
- David Horne - Mr. Garvace
- Victor Platt
- Director(s):
- Anthony Pelissier
- Writer(s):
- Anthony Pelissier
- Producer(s):
- John Mills
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