Smilin' Through (1941)
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67% of users liked it
(205 ratings)
Adapted from the warhorse stage tearjerker by Jane Cowl and Jane Murfin, this 1941 film version of Smilin' Through is even hokier than two earlier movie adaptations, but it works beautifully thanks to the sensitive direction of Frank Borzage. Brian Aherne dominates the proceedings as the aged… More Adapted from the warhorse stage tearjerker by Jane Cowl and Jane Murfin, this 1941 film version of Smilin' Through is even hokier than two earlier movie adaptations, but it works beautifully thanks to the sensitive direction of Frank Borzage. Brian Aherne dominates the proceedings as the aged Sir John Carteret, who has lived in embittered seclusion since the tragic wedding-day death of his beloved fiancee Moonyean Clare. Upon the outbreak of WW2, Cateret's estate is visited by his orphaned American niece Kathleen (Jeanette MacDonald), who is the living image of the late Moonyean. Finding a new lease on life, Sir John hopes against hope to avert the romantic disasters of his past, but this proves difficult when it appears that the deadly rivalries which cost the life of Moonyean are poised to avail themselves once more. Costarring in the dual role of Moonyean's ex-lover Jeremy and Kathleen's current beau Kenneth is Gene Raymond, soon to become the husband of Jeanette MacDonald. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
- Directed By
- Frank Borzage
- Written By
- John L. Balderston, Donald Ogden Stewart
- Genres
- Drama, Romance, Musical & Performing Arts, Classics
Unrated,
- In Theaters
- Jan 1, 1941 Wide
- Studio
- MGM
Critic Reviews
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Dan Callahan, Slant Magazine
This material had served as a tear-milking vehicle for Norma Talmadge in the '20s and Norma Shearer in the '30s, and it was a touch threadbare even when they did it.
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Cast
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Jeanette MacDonald
as Moonyean Clare
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Brian Aherne
as Sir John Carteret
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Gene Raymond
as Jeremy Wayne, Kenneth Wayne
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Ian Hunter
as Rev. Owen Harding
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Frances Robinson
as Ellen
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Pat O'Moore
as Willie
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Eric Lonsdale
as Charles (Batman)
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Jackie Horner
as Kathleen as a child
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David Clyde
as Sexton
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Frances Carson
as Dowager
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Ruth Rickaby
as Woman
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Wyndham Standing
as Doctor
