Watch Green Grow the Rushes

Green Grow the Rushes is a 1951 British drama film directed by Derek Twist, featuring Roger Livesey, Honor Blackman, and Richard Burton in prominent roles. The movie revolves around the life of a shipbuilder, Samuel Martin (Roger Livesey). Samuel's shipyard is closed down due to a lack of funds and his financial condition becomes unstable. He decides to embark on a journey to Africa to explore new opportunities.

On his journey, Samuel crosses paths with various people, including a young woman named Fiona (played by Honor Blackman), a British engineer called Henry (played by Richard Burton), and an alcoholic doctor. Samuel develops a liking for Fiona and befriends Henry, who has a plan to extract valuable minerals from Africa.

The film showcases the struggles of the protagonist to find a new source of livelihood while putting his life at risk. Samuel's journey to Africa is full of adventures and hurdles that test his courage and determination. The natural beauty of the African countryside is depicted vividly through breathtaking visuals and music.

One of the key themes of the movie is the impact of colonialism on African lands and its inhabitants. The British presence in Africa is seen as exploitative, with the British characters solely focused on extracting resources for their own gain. The locals are depicted as being at the mercy of the British characters and their desires. The movie does not shy away from highlighting the dark realities of colonialism, and the impact it had on the African people.

Roger Livesey delivers a stellar performance as Samuel Martin, portraying the character's struggle to survive and find new opportunities with great conviction. Honor Blackman also shines in her role as Fiona, providing a strong and impactful portrayal of a woman who is trying to survive in a male-dominated world.

Richard Burton also makes an impressive debut in his role as Henry, showcasing his acting abilities and providing a nuanced performance that adds depth to the character. The film was Burton's first major role, and it helped propel him to stardom.

The cinematography and music of the film are top-notch, providing an immersive experience for the viewer. The African landscape is captured in all its glory, with the visuals lending a sense of authenticity to the film. The music, composed by Trevor Duncan, adds to the emotional depth of the film, with its haunting melodies and orchestration.

Overall, Green Grow the Rushes is an excellent example of British cinema during the 1950s. It is a film that depicts the human struggles and emotions in the face of hardship and adversity, and it provides an insightful commentary on the impact of colonialism on African lands and the people who live on them.