Brief Encounter
A story of the most precious moments in a woman's life!
Overview
Returning home from a shopping trip to a nearby town, bored suburban housewife Laura Jesson is thrown by happenstance into an acquaintance with virtuous doctor Alec Harvey. Their casual friendship soon develops during their weekly visits into something more emotionally fulfilling than either expected, and they must wrestle with the potential havoc their deepening relationship would have on their lives and the lives of those they love.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Brief Encounter was released shortly after the end of World War II in Britain. The film reflects a certain societal repression and a longing for emotional connection prevalent in the post-war era, where duty and societal expectations often clashed with personal desires, especially for women.
- The nuanced and emotionally resonant performances by Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard, capturing the subtle complexities of forbidden love.
- The film's poignant exploration of repressed emotions and societal expectations in post-war England.
- David Lean's masterful direction, utilizing evocative cinematography, music, and editing to create a deeply affecting atmosphere.
- The screenplay's realistic dialogue and relatable characters, making their moral dilemmas feel authentic and compelling.
Fun Facts
- Noel Coward, who wrote the original play "Still Life" on which the film is based, insisted that Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 be used as the film's theme music.
- Celia Johnson was initially reluctant to take the role of Laura Jesson, fearing it would interfere with her family life. She ultimately agreed after being convinced by David Lean and Noel Coward.