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- Libel 1959 Colorized
Synopsis
A Twisted Tale of Identity: Libel (1959) in Stunning Color
Dive into the captivating world of courtroom intrigue with Libel (1959), a British mystery drama that keeps you guessing until the final verdict. Directed by Anthony Asquith, this adaptation of Edward Wooll’s 1935 play delivers a riveting exploration of identity, memory, and deception. Featuring an unforgettable performance by Dirk Bogarde in dual roles, alongside the elegant Olivia de Havilland, this colorized version breathes new life into a classic tale of suspense. Perfect for fans of legal dramas and vintage cinema, this HD download brings one of the most compelling films of the 1950s to your screen.
Libel Storyline: A Case of Mistaken Identity?
Libel follows Sir Mark Loddon (Dirk Bogarde), a respected British nobleman whose life is upended when Canadian World War II veteran Jeffrey Buckenham (Paul Massie) accuses him of being an impostor. Buckenham claims that Loddon is actually Frank Wellney, a look-alike actor who assumed Loddon’s identity during their time in a German POW camp.
The accusation leads to a high-stakes libel trial where both men recount their versions of events from the war. Through flashbacks, we see how Loddon and Wellney shared a hut in the camp and how their striking resemblance led to confusion. As evidence mounts, even Loddon’s devoted wife, Lady Margaret Loddon (Olivia de Havilland), begins to doubt her husband’s true identity.
The courtroom drama intensifies with shocking revelations, including the appearance of “Number Fifteen,” a disfigured and deranged former POW who holds the key to unraveling the mystery. The film builds to a dramatic conclusion as Loddon fights to prove who he really is, relying on a hidden medallion that could validate his identity once and for all.
Star-Studded Cast
The film features an exceptional cast that brings this complex story to life:
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Dirk Bogarde as Sir Mark Loddon/Frank Wellney/Number Fifteen
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Olivia de Havilland as Lady Margaret Loddon
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Paul Massie as Jeffrey Buckenham
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Robert Morley as Sir Wilfred
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Wilfrid Hyde-White as Hubert Foxley
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Millicent Martin as Maisie
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Robert Shaw as 1st Photographer
Movie Genre
Libel is a courtroom mystery drama with elements of psychological suspense and wartime intrigue. Its blend of legal battles, personal dilemmas, and flashback storytelling makes it a standout example of mid-century British cinema.
Historical Context: Post-War Themes and Legal Drama
Released in 1959, Libel reflects post-war anxieties about identity and trauma. By updating the original play’s World War I setting to World War II, the film resonates with contemporary audiences who were grappling with the lingering effects of global conflict.
The film also exemplifies the golden age of courtroom dramas, joining ranks with classics like Witness for the Prosecution (1957) and Anatomy of a Murder (1959). Its exploration of memory and truth adds depth to its legal narrative, making it more than just a procedural drama.
Colorization Details
This colorized version of Libel has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques. The process involved enhancing the film’s original black-and-white cinematography by Robert Krasker, bringing vibrant hues to its courtroom scenes and flashback sequences. The colorization highlights every detail—from Dirk Bogarde’s nuanced expressions to Olivia de Havilland’s Dior-designed costumes—making this classic even more visually compelling for modern audiences.
Technical Details
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Director: Anthony Asquith
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Screenplay: Anatole de Grunwald & Karl Tunberg
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Based on: Libel! (1935 play by Edward Wooll)
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Cinematography: Robert Krasker
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Edited by: Frank Clarke
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Music: Benjamin Frankel
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Production Company: De Grunwald Productions
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Distributed by: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
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Runtime: 100 minutes
Technical Specifications
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Download Format: MP4
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Resolution: HD (1080p)
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Compatibility: Compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Critical Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, Libel was praised for its gripping narrative and Dirk Bogarde’s masterful performance in dual roles. Critics highlighted Anthony Asquith’s direction and Robert Krasker’s atmospheric cinematography as key strengths. While some reviews noted the convoluted nature of its courtroom scenes, the film remains a compelling exploration of truth and identity.
Over time, Libel has gained recognition as one of Bogarde’s standout performances, showcasing his range as an actor. Olivia de Havilland’s portrayal of Lady Margaret adds emotional depth to the story, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile stars.
FAQs
Q: What is Libel about?
A: Libel is a courtroom drama about a British nobleman accused of being an impostor by a former POW.
Q: Who stars in Libel?
A: The film stars Dirk Bogarde in dual roles alongside Olivia de Havilland, Paul Massie, Robert Morley, and Wilfrid Hyde-White.
Q: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes, this version has been professionally colorized to enhance the viewing experience.
Q: How does Libel compare to other courtroom dramas?
A: With its unique blend of psychological suspense and legal intrigue, Libel stands out as one of the most thought-provoking films in its genre.
Q: What makes Dirk Bogarde’s performance special?
A: Bogarde delivers a nuanced portrayal of two distinct characters while maintaining ambiguity about their true identities.
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