Download His Double Life (1933) Colorized HD | Roland Young | Charming Comedy of Mistaken Identity

A Reclusive Artist’s Unexpected Adventure: His Double Life (1933) in Stunning Color

Step into the whimsical world of 1930s comedy with “His Double Life,” a captivating tale of mistaken identity from 1933, now beautifully colorized for a viewing experience like never before. This film, directed by Arthur Hopkins, delivers a delightful blend of humor, romance, and social commentary as it follows a renowned painter who accidentally assumes his valet’s identity. Perfect for classic film enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of pre-Code Hollywood’s lighter fare, this HD download brings a charming gem of cinematic history to your screen.

His Double Life Storyline: A Case of Mistaken Identity

“His Double Life” centers on Priam Farrel (Roland Young), a celebrated but reclusive artist who abhors public attention. When his valet, Henry Leek, suddenly dies of pneumonia, a mix-up leads to the body being identified as Farrel’s. The timid artist, seeing an opportunity to escape his fame, decides to assume the identity of his former servant.

Farrel’s new life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Alice Chalice (Lillian Gish), a woman who was corresponding with Leek through a matrimonial agency. Drawn to Alice’s pleasant company, Farrel finds himself falling in love and marrying her under his assumed identity. As the couple settles into a quiet country life, complications arise when Farrel’s paintings are recognized, and Leek’s real family appears on the scene.

The film builds to a humorous climax as Farrel must navigate a courtroom drama to prove his true identity while trying to maintain his newfound happiness with Alice. “His Double Life” offers a witty commentary on the nature of identity, fame, and the simple pleasures of anonymity.

Stellar Cast

“His Double Life” features a talented ensemble:

• Roland Young as Priam Farrel

• Lillian Gish as Alice Chalice

• Montagu Love as Duncan Farrel

• Lumsden Hare as Oxford

• Lucy Beaumont as Mrs. Leek

• Charles Richman as Dr. Cromarty

• Oliver Smith as John Leek

• Philip Tonge as Henry Leek Jr.

Movie Genre

“His Double Life” is a charming comedy of errors that blends elements of romantic comedy and social satire. Its exploration of identity and the pitfalls of fame make it a delightful example of pre-Code Hollywood’s more sophisticated comedies.

Historical Context: Pre-Code Hollywood

Released in 1933, “His Double Life” came at the tail end of Hollywood’s pre-Code era, a period before strict censorship guidelines were enforced. This allowed for more nuanced storytelling and adult themes, even in lighthearted comedies. The film’s gentle satire of social expectations and celebrity culture reflects the changing attitudes of the early 1930s.

Colorization Details

This colorized version of “His Double Life” has been meticulously restored using state-of-the-art digital techniques. The process involved carefully analyzing the original black and white footage and assigning appropriate colors to each scene, bringing new life to the 1930s fashions, quaint country settings, and the contrast between Farrel’s two worlds.

The colorization enhances the visual appeal of the film’s period costumes and set designs, allowing modern viewers to fully appreciate the production values of this classic comedy. It brings warmth to the romantic scenes between Young and Gish, while accentuating the humor of the film’s more farcical moments.

Technical Details

• Director: Arthur Hopkins

• Screenplay: Clara Beranger, Arthur Hopkins

• Based on: the play “The Great Adventure” by Arnold Bennett

• Cinematography: George Webber

• Edited by: William Shea

• Production Company: Paramount Pictures

• Distributed by: Paramount Pictures

• Runtime: 68 minutes

Technical Specifications

• Download Format: MP4

• Resolution: HD (1080p)

• Compatibility: Compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

Critical Reception and Legacy

While “His Double Life” may not be as well-remembered as some of its contemporaries, it has gained appreciation over the years for its clever premise and the chemistry between Roland Young and Lillian Gish. The film is notable for providing Gish, primarily known for her dramatic roles in silent films, with a rare comedic part in the sound era.

The story has proven to have enduring appeal, having been adapted multiple times. It was previously filmed as “The Great Adventure” (1921) with Lionel Barrymore, and later remade as “Holy Matrimony” (1943) starring Monty Woolley and Gracie Fields.

FAQs

• Q: Is “His Double Life” based on a book or play?

  • A: Yes, it’s based on the play “The Great Adventure” by Arnold Bennett.

• Q: How does the colorized version enhance the viewing experience?

  • A: The colorization brings new life to the 1930s settings and costumes, making the film’s period charm more vivid for modern viewers.

• Q: Who are the main stars of “His Double Life”?

  • A: The film stars Roland Young as Priam Farrel and Lillian Gish as Alice Chalice.

• Q: What makes this film unique among 1930s comedies?

  • A: Its blend of mistaken identity farce with social commentary on fame and identity was relatively sophisticated for its time.

• Q: How long is the movie?

  • A: The runtime is 68 minutes, making it a brisk and entertaining comedy.

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