The Essentials: Pygmalion (1938) at Moxie Cinema

"A quintessentially English film that retains the charm and wit of George Bernard Shaw's original play while Leslie Howard's dual role as director and star showcases his versatility." (TCM)

Pygmalion was one of the first British films to gain significant international acclaim helping to establish the United Kingdom as a force in cinema. See it at The Moxie Wednesday November 20th @ 7pm part of The Essentials series. This series is Free for Moxie Members.

Cranky Professor Henry Higgins (Leslie Howard) takes a bet that he can turn Cockney guttersnipe Eliza Doolittle (Wendy Hiller) into a "proper lady" in a mere six months in this delightful comedy of bad manners based on the play by George Bernard Shaw. This Academy Award–winning inspiration for Lerner and Loewe's My Fair Lady was directed by Anthony Asquith and star Howard edited by David Lean and scripted by Shaw himself. [Criterion]

Starring: Leslie Howard Wendy Hiller Wilfrid Lawson

Director(s): Anthony Asquith Leslie Howard

Genre(s): Comedy Drama Romance

Rating: NR

Runtime: 96 min.

"The 1938 screen adaptation is buoyed by a spirited performance from Wendy Hiller whose portrayal of Eliza Doolittle injects vigor and freshness into Shaw's dialogue. Wendy Hiller's turn as Eliza is memorable for its authenticity and emotional depth transforming the film into a compelling study of class and personal growth." - Peter Cowie Criterion Collection

Host or Publisher Moxie CInema