A Town Like Alice (1956)

 Jack Lee's "A Town Like Alice"


Although it did not perform well here in America, Jack Lee's "A Town Called Alice" was the third highest earner at the British box office in 1956. Based on the 1950 novel of the same name by Nevil Shute, the film centers on an Englishwoman who, along with other women and children, become imprisoned by Japanese soldiers in Malaya. 

The film is notable for being withdrawn from the 1956 Cannes Film Festival due to fears that it would offend the Japanese. While I understand this viewpoint, there are many instances in the film in which Japanese characters are sympathetic and compassionate to the English prisoners. The film isn't as black and white as one would imagine. 

I did find the film to be mildly entertaining. It certainly didn't blow me away, but it also wasn't a complete waste of time. It is an interesting story about compassion and resilience during the years of wartime.

 


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