Watch London Belongs to Me
- NR
- 1948
- 1 hr 52 min
-
6.9 (455)
London Belongs to Me is a heartwarming comedy-drama from 1948 that follows the lives of a group of residents in a London boarding house in the 1930s. The movie is based on the popular novel of the same name by Norman Collins. The story centers around a young woman named Pleasance (played by Susan Shaw), who has just moved into the boarding house. She quickly becomes acquainted with the other residents, including the kindly Mr. Squales (played by Alastair Sim), the eccentric Mr. Josser (played by Wylie Watson), and the charming young artist Percy (played by Richard Attenborough).
As the residents navigate their various personal and professional struggles, they rely on each other for support and sometimes get caught up in each other's problems. Percy, for example, is torn between his love for Pleasance and his ambitions as an artist. Meanwhile, Mr. Squales finds himself in legal trouble and turns to his fellow boarders for help.
Despite the challenges they face, the residents of the boarding house find joy and solace in their tight-knit community. They share meals, play games, and celebrate holidays together. Throughout the film, the audience gets a glimpse into the everyday life of working-class Londoners in the 1930s.
One of the standout performances in the film is Alastair Sim's portrayal of Mr. Squales. Sim brings both humor and heart to the role, as Mr. Squales struggles to clear his name and reestablish his reputation. Similarly, Wylie Watson's performance as Mr. Josser adds a touch of whimsy to the film. Mr. Josser is a collector of oddities, and his quirky interests provide moments of levity throughout the movie.
Richard Attenborough shines as Percy, the talented artist with a heart of gold. Through his interactions with Pleasance and the other residents, we see his sensitive side and his struggles to balance his passions with his responsibilities. Susan Shaw's performance as Pleasance is also noteworthy, as she brings a sense of innocence and vulnerability to her character.
The film's setting is also a major highlight. The filmmakers make great use of real locations in London, showcasing iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the River Thames. This adds to the film's authenticity and provides a compelling glimpse into London during a bygone era.
Overall, London Belongs to Me is a delightful movie that offers a charming look at London life in the 1930s. It's an earnest and compassionate portrait of working-class Londoners, who find joy and comfort in their communal living arrangement. With its strong ensemble cast, evocative setting, and timeless themes of love, friendship, and community, London Belongs to Me is a classic that still resonates with audiences today.