The Edge of the World (1937)

The Edge of the World
Directed by Michael Powell
Written by Michael Powell
1937/UK
Joe Rock Productions
Repeat viewing

[box] “Art is merciless observation, sympathy, imagination, and a sense of detachment that is almost cruelty.” — Michael Powell[/box]

This was Michael Powell’s first major creative project after several years of directing “quota quickies”.  It is an exquisite film.

The island of Hirta in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland is cut off from the rest of the world during much of the year and accessible only by sea during the rest.  The people live a simple life herding sheep and fishing as they have for hundreds of years.  Now young people are moving away and the peat the people cut for fuel is giving out.  Most people know their days on the island are numbered but community leader Peter Manson (John Laurie) refuses to budge.  James Gray (Finlay Currie), another leader, suspects evacuation is inevitable.

Gray’s son Andrew (Niall McGinnis) is in love with Manson’s daughter Ruth.  The couple is intent on marrying and raising a family on the island.  Manson’s son Robbie has returned for a final visit.  He has fallen in love with a girl on the mainland and has no intention of bringing her back to the island.  The conflict inherent in the threads of the plot comes to a head when Robbie and Andrew engage in a contest of nerve and physical prowess.

What an eye Powell had!  This film contains some of the most stunning shots to be seen anywhere.  If people could eat scenery, Hirta would have been overpopulated.  Powell also captures the sadness and poetry of a dying way of life.  The choral music and orchestral score is beautiful.  The story is secondary I feel. Highly recommended for lovers of the visual aspects of film.

Clip – Introduction