Watch The Howards of Virginia

The Howards of Virginia is a 1940 historical drama film that starred Cary Grant, Martha Scott, and Cedric Hardwicke. The movie centers on a story about a family of Virginia tobacco growers during the American Revolution. The film is directed by Frank Lloyd and is loosely based on the life of a Virginia planter named Thomas Jefferson.

The story revolves around the life of young Matt Howard (Cary Grant), who is the head of the iconic Howard family. The family is prominent in the province of Virginia, and their house is built on land that has been in their family for generations. Matt is a hard-working tobacco farmer who is deeply attached to his land and horses. Despite the demands of running a successful plantation, Matt manages to carve out time for his personal life, and he forms a deep relationship with the young and beautiful Jane Peyton (Martha Scott).

Their relationship starts off as a friendship, but as they grow closer, feelings of love begin to develop. However, their love is threatened by the outbreak of the Revolution, and soon they find themselves caught up in the conflict between the British and the colonists. As the war progresses, Matt becomes more and more involved in it, taking on the responsibility of leading his people and protecting his land from enemy attacks.

Throughout the film, we see Matt and Jane's love for each other, and their unwavering commitment to liberty and independence. Their relationship is tested by the war, but their love for each other and their shared values help them to persevere.

The film portrays the Howards as an honorable and noble family, who are determined to protect their land and their freedoms. Despite the many challenges they face, they remain steadfast in their beliefs and their commitment to each other.

Cary Grant gives a convincing performance as Matt Howard, exuding strength, courage, and a deep sense of duty. Martha Scott is equally impressive in her depiction of Jane Peyton, portraying her as a strong-minded woman who is independent and fiercely loyal. Cedric Hardwicke, who plays the villainous Lord Fairfax, is also noteworthy, his character representing the British Crown's fight against the revolution.

The production design of the movie is also noteworthy, with the sets, costumes, and scenery all contributing to the film's authentic historical feel. It is clear that the film's producers made an effort to be as accurate as possible in their portrayal of the period, and this attention to detail helps to create an immersive experience for viewers.

Overall, The Howards of Virginia is a beautifully filmed and well-acted historical drama that will appeal to fans of romance, action, and history. While it may not be the most historically accurate film out there, it is an engaging and enjoyable way to experience the American Revolution through the eyes of a family who played a part in it. If you're a fan of classic Hollywood movies or just looking for an entertaining way to learn about history, The Howards of Virginia is definitely worth a watch.