The Howards of Virginia (1940) is a drama war film directed by Frank Lloyd and released by Columbia Pictures. The film is based on the book The Tree of Liberty written by Elizabeth Page. It is set during the American Revolutionary War and features Cary Grant as Matt Howard, Martha Scott as his wife Jane Peyton Howard, and Sir Cedric Hardwicke as Jane's elder brother Fleetwood Peyton. The film explores the tensions between the colonists and the British, as well as the personal struggles of the characters within their own families. Much of the film was shot at Colonial Williamsburg, which had recently been restored or reconstructed at the time of production.
Plot
The plot of The Howards of Virginia revolves around the story of an aristocratic Virginian woman, Jane Peyton, who marries a humble farmer and surveyor named Matt Howard just before the American War of Independence. The film follows their Journey as Matt takes Jane to his Shenandoah Valley plantation and later joins the war effort. The movie explores the contrast between Jane's aristocratic background and Matt's more down-to-earth nature, set against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War.
Cast
- Cary Grant as Matt Howard
- Martha Scott as Jane Peyton Howard
- Richard Carlson as Thomas Jefferson
- Sir Cedric Hardwicke as Fleetwood Peyton
- Alan Marshal as Roger Peyton
- Phil Taylor as Peyton Howard at 18
- Rita Quigley as Mary Howard at age 17
- Tom Drake (credited as Richard Alden) as James Howard at 16
- Irving Bacon as Tom Norton
- Libby Taylor as Dicey
- Richard Gaines as Patrick Henry
- Paul Kelly as Captain Jabez Allen
- George Houston as George Washington
- Elisabeth Risdon as Aunt Clarissa
- Dickie Jones as Matt Howard at 12
- Buster Phelps as Thomas Jefferson at 11
- Ralph Byrd as James Howard.
Director: Frank Lloyd
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Release Date (Theaters): Sep 19, 1940
Theme
The theme of The Howards of Virginia revolves around the historical backdrop of the American Revolutionary War and the personal struggles and societal conflicts faced by the characters. The film delves into themes such as patriotism, class differences, the impact of war on families, and the tensions between the colonists and the British. It also explores themes of determination, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom during a tumultuous period in American history.
Reception
The reception of The Howards of Virginia was mixed. While the film was praised for its good story and capturing some of the motivating spirit of the American Revolution, it was criticized for being a condensed version of the novel, which resulted in the sacrifice of some characterization. Cary Grant's performance was also criticized as being miscast and not fitting the role of Matt Howard. However, other actors such as Cedric Hardwicke, Richard Carlson, and Martha Scott were praised for their performances.
Production Challenge
The production of The Howards of Virginia faced challenges, with some critics noting that the film was a new production similar to previous works, which posed a challenge in terms of originality and standing out from earlier productions set during the American Revolution. The film's setting during this historical period, like other movies such as "Allegheny Uprising" and "Drums along the Mohawk," presented a challenge in creating a unique and compelling narrative within the context of the American Revolutionary War.
Setting
The settings of The Howards of Virginia include colonial Virginia between the 1750s and 1781. The film is set in the backdrop of the American War of Independence, with scenes taking place in various locations such as the Shenandoah Valley plantation, the battlefield, and the home of Jane's brother Fleetwood Peyton. The story follows the life of Matt Howard, played by Cary Grant, and his family as they navigate the challenges of war and societal conflicts.
Visual Styles & Techniques
The visual styles and techniques used in The Howards of Virginia are not specified in the provided search results. However, the film is noted for being set in colonial Virginia between the 1750s and 1781, with scenes taking place in various locations such as the Shenandoah Valley plantation, the battlefield, and the home of Jane's brother Fleetwood Peyton. Additionally, the film was shot at Colonial Williamsburg, which had recently been restored or reconstructed at the time of production.
Trivia & Fun fact
Some trivia and fun facts related to The Howards of Virginia and its cast include:
- Cary Grant, who played the lead role of Matt Howard, was known for his versatile acting career, appearing in numerous iconic films such as "North by Northwest," "Charade," and "To Catch a Thief".
- Richard Gaines, who portrayed Patrick Henry in the film, was an actor known for his roles in movies like "Double Indemnity" and "Ace in the Hole.
