We watch as several different passengers board and wander about the decks of a ship. The exterior is covered in fog and the characters are confused about how they got on board or where they are going. The whole place is shrouded in mystery, but we slowly learn that all of them are dead and are sailing to their judgment. Henry (Douglas Fairbanks Jr.) and Ann (Helen Chandler) are a married couple determined to stay together. Tom Prior (Leslie Howard) is a bit of a drunk, but an astute and generous man. Mrs. Midget (Beryl Mercer) is an elderly woman from the slums who is snubbed by many of the passengers. Most of the wealthy people are selfish and snobby (Montagu Love, Alison Skipworth).
The dialogue is almost as enchanting as the setting and the actors really bring their characters to life. Most notable is Howard who appears here in his first feature film. He seems well suited to film although his lyricism certainly stems from his experience on the stage. Chandler and Fairbanks are a bit less natural but their story is interesting and heartbreaking. What is great about this movie is that although we know a big twist from the start, the fact that the passengers are dead, it is not without surprises. The ending throws several unexpected wrenches that further liven the story. Do not miss this one.
The dialogue is almost as enchanting as the setting and the actors really bring their characters to life. Most notable is Howard who appears here in his first feature film. He seems well suited to film although his lyricism certainly stems from his experience on the stage. Chandler and Fairbanks are a bit less natural but their story is interesting and heartbreaking. What is great about this movie is that although we know a big twist from the start, the fact that the passengers are dead, it is not without surprises. The ending throws several unexpected wrenches that further liven the story. Do not miss this one.