Step into the perilous world of Nazi-occupied Norway with “Edge of Darkness,” a compelling World War II drama from 1943, now beautifully colorized for a viewing experience like never before. This film, directed by Lewis Milestone, delivers a powerful blend of resistance, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit as it follows a small fishing village’s uprising against their oppressors. Perfect for war film enthusiasts and those seeking a glimpse into the lesser-known fronts of World War II, this HD download brings a star-studded masterpiece of cinematic history to your screen.
Set in 1942, “Edge of Darkness” unfolds in the Nazi-occupied fishing village of Trollness, Norway. The film opens with a chilling scene: German troops arrive to find the village strewn with bodies of both Nazis and Norwegians, setting the stage for a gripping tale told in flashback.
We’re introduced to a cast of complex characters, including Gunnar Brogge (Errol Flynn), a fisherman and resistance leader, and his love interest Karen Stensgard (Ann Sheridan), daughter of the conflicted Dr. Martin Stensgard (Walter Huston). The village is a microcosm of wartime society, featuring collaborators, resisters, and those caught in between.
As the oppression intensifies, the villagers secretly plot their uprising, waiting for weapons from British allies. The film builds tension masterfully, exploring the psychological toll of occupation and the moral dilemmas faced by characters like Karen’s brother Johann, a former Nazi collaborator.
The story reaches its climax when Karen is assaulted by a German soldier, catalyzing the village’s decision to revolt. What follows is a dramatic and costly battle for freedom, showcasing the courage and sacrifice of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.
“Edge of Darkness” boasts an impressive ensemble:
Errol Flynn as Gunnar Brogge
Ann Sheridan as Karen Stensgard
Walter Huston as Dr. Martin Stensgard
Ruth Gordon as Anna Stensgard
John Beal as Johann Stensgard
Judith Anderson as Gerd Bjarnesen
Charles Dingle as Kaspar Torgersen
Helmut Dantine as Capt. Koenig
“Edge of Darkness” is a World War II resistance drama that blends elements of action, romance, and intense character study. Its exploration of moral choices under occupation and the cost of freedom makes it a standout in the war film genre.
Released in 1943, while World War II was still raging, “Edge of Darkness” sheds light on the often-overlooked Norwegian resistance. Norway’s strategic importance due to its long coastline made it a key target for Nazi occupation, as it provided bases for disrupting Allied shipping in the North Atlantic.
The film accurately portrays the diverse reactions to occupation within a community and the gradual build-up to active resistance. It serves as both a morale-boosting propaganda piece for Allied audiences and a tribute to the real-life courage of resistance movements across occupied Europe.
This colorized version of “Edge of Darkness” has been meticulously restored using state-of-the-art digital techniques. The process brings new life to the stark Norwegian landscapes, the somber interiors of occupied buildings, and the intense action sequences.
The colorization enhances the visual storytelling, from the muted tones of everyday village life to the vivid chaos of the climactic battle. It allows modern viewers to connect more deeply with the characters and their world, making the historical setting feel immediate and relevant.
Director: Lewis Milestone
Screenplay: Robert Rossen
Based on: the novel by William Woods
Cinematography: Sid Hickox
Edited by: David Weisbart
Music by: Franz Waxman
Production Company: Warner Bros.
Distributed by: Warner Bros.
Runtime: 119 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.
“Edge of Darkness” was well-received upon its release, praised for its powerful performances and Milestone’s skillful direction. The New York Times called it “strong melodrama,” while Variety described it as “dramatic, tense, emotion-stirring.”
The film’s depiction of ordinary people rising against tyranny resonated strongly with wartime audiences. It was one of the five most requested movies by the US Army in April 1943, highlighting its impact on morale.
Today, “Edge of Darkness” is recognized as an important entry in the World War II film canon, appreciated for its nuanced portrayal of resistance and collaboration, as well as its technical achievements in cinematography and scoring.
Q: Is “Edge of Darkness” based on true events?
A: While not based on specific true events, it’s inspired by the real Norwegian resistance during World War II.
Q: How does the colorized version enhance the viewing experience?
A: The colorization brings new depth to the Norwegian settings and intensifies the drama of key scenes.
Q: Who are the main stars of “Edge of Darkness”?
A: The film stars Errol Flynn as Gunnar Brogge and Ann Sheridan as Karen Stensgard.
Q: What is the significance of the film’s title?
A: “Edge of Darkness” refers to the precarious situation of the villagers, poised between submission and rebellion.
Q: How long is the movie?
A: The runtime is 119 minutes, allowing for deep character development and a complex plot.
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