Download The Small Back Room (1949) Colorized HD | David Farrar | War Drama Noir Classic

Shadows and Secrets: The Small Back Room (1949) in Stunning Color

Immerse yourself in the tense, shadowy world of wartime Britain with “The Small Back Room,” a compelling war drama from 1949, now brilliantly colorized for a modern cinematic experience. Directed by the legendary duo Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, this film masterfully blends psychological depth, wartime suspense, and a haunting love story. Perfect for classic film enthusiasts and fans of noir and wartime cinema, this HD download brings the intensity and artistry of a British masterpiece to your screen.

The Small Back Room Storyline: A Battle Within and Without

Set against the backdrop of World War II, “The Small Back Room” follows Sammy Rice (David Farrar), a brilliant but embittered scientist and former bomb disposal officer. Haunted by the loss of his foot and wracked with pain, Sammy struggles with alcoholism and self-doubt while working with a secretive “back room” team evaluating new German weapons for the British government.

Sammy’s personal life is equally fraught. He is in love with Susan (Kathleen Byron), a devoted secretary who endures his self-destructive behavior, hoping to help him overcome his demons. As bureaucratic infighting and poor management threaten to undermine the team’s work, Sammy is called upon to investigate a new, deadly Nazi booby trap device.

When a colleague dies attempting to disarm one of the devices, Sammy is forced to confront his own fears and limitations. In a harrowing sequence, he must use his expertise to defuse a second device, racing against time and his own inner turmoil. His success restores his confidence and reputation, and he is offered a prestigious new position. Returning home, he finds Susan waiting for him, ready to start anew.

Star-Studded Cast

“The Small Back Room” features a powerhouse ensemble cast:

• David Farrar as Sammy Rice

• Kathleen Byron as Susan

• Jack Hawkins as R.B. Waring

• Leslie Banks as Colonel A.K. Holland

• Michael Gough as Captain Dick Stuart

• Cyril Cusack as Corporal Taylor

• Robert Morley as the government minister (credited as “A Guest”)

• Sid James as “Knucksie” Moran, barkeeper and ex-boxer

• Bryan Forbes as Peterson, the dying gunner

Movie Genre

“The Small Back Room” is a war drama with strong noir and psychological thriller elements. Its exploration of personal struggle, bureaucratic intrigue, and wartime suspense makes it a standout in the Powell & Pressburger canon and a must-see for fans of classic British cinema.

Historical Context: Post-War Britain and the Archers’ Vision

Released in 1949, “The Small Back Room” marked a departure for Powell and Pressburger from their earlier Technicolor fantasies. Instead, they embraced a darker, more realistic style, reflecting the mood of post-war Britain. The film is based on the best-selling novel by Nigel Balchin and is notable for its shadowy cinematography, expressionist flourishes, and emotional intensity58.

The film’s portrayal of wartime bureaucracy, scientific research, and personal sacrifice resonated with audiences still recovering from the war. Its nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best British Film is a testament to its critical acclaim and lasting influence57.

Colorization Details

This colorized version of “The Small Back Room” has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques. The process involved carefully analyzing the original black and white footage and assigning period-appropriate colors to each scene. The result is a visually stunning film that brings new life to its atmospheric settings, dramatic lighting, and expressive performances.

The colorization enhances the emotional impact of the film’s most memorable scenes, such as the iconic “giant whisky bottle” sequence, where Sammy’s inner torment is visualized in striking detail.

Technical Details

• Director: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

• Screenplay: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger (based on the novel by Nigel Balchin)

• Cinematography: Christopher Challis

• Edited by: Reginald Mills

• Production Company: London Film Productions

• Distributed by: British Lion Film Corporation

• Runtime: 106 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

“The Small Back Room” was praised for its psychological depth, atmospheric direction, and standout performances. Nominated for a BAFTA Award, the film has since been recognized as a classic of British cinema and a key work in the Powell & Pressburger oeuvre57.

Critics and audiences alike have noted the film’s ability to blend wartime suspense with intimate character drama, making it a unique and enduring entry in the war film genre.

FAQs

• Q: What is “The Small Back Room” about?

  • A: The film follows a troubled scientist and former bomb disposal officer as he battles personal demons and wartime bureaucracy while investigating a deadly Nazi booby trap device.

• Q: Who are the main stars of “The Small Back Room”?

  • A: The film stars David Farrar as Sammy Rice and Kathleen Byron as Susan, with notable performances by Jack Hawkins and Leslie Banks.

• Q: Is this version of “The Small Back Room” colorized?

  • A: Yes, this version has been professionally colorized to enhance the viewing experience.

• Q: What makes “The Small Back Room” special for classic film fans?

  • A: The film is a masterful blend of war drama, noir, and psychological thriller, directed by the acclaimed team of Powell and Pressburger.

• Q: What is the download format?

  • A: The download format is MP4, which is compatible with most devices.

• Q: What resolution is the download?

  • A: The resolution is HD (1080p), providing a high-quality viewing experience.

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Experience the Tension and Drama of “The Small Back Room” Today!