A Canterbury Tale (1944)

 Michael Powell & Emeric Pressburger's "A Canterbury Tale"


1944's "A Canterbury Tale" was the first production by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger to not be considered a box office success. Much like their other films during this period, it was filmed and released during Britain's ongoing war with Germany. The film's plot is set during these contemporary war times and is thematically centered on the concept that "the past always haunts the present." Although the film wasn't entirely successful during its opening run, its gotten much better retrospective acclaim. 

I somewhat enjoyed the film, although the ending left little to be desired for me. It wasn't bad by any means. Like I said, I enjoyed it. However, it wasn't a very memorable experience and won't be something I oft reflect upon. I was quite admiring of the cinematography if anything. I'm very used to the direction of Powell & Pressburger, but the additional imaging by cinematographer Erwin Hillier allowed for some expressionism in the black and white images. Interesting flourishes and touches. 





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