brent Poirier Well written, well acted, well filmed, spectacular scenery. Loved it. Delighted Netflix had it on DVD. The film did not shrink from tragedy, was not melodramatic when portraying reconciliation, and touched on some timeless themes. It was easy to identify with the characters. The island scenery is unforgettable. The filming locations including closeups were well chosen and well filmed. I recognized one of the main characters from his role in Sergeant York. I very much enjoyed the director and a couple of the actors returning to the island 40 years later and reminiscing. A well done film. I will recommend it to friends including families without hesitation.

elettra-2 I was fascinated by the film - seventy years after the fact. The term "Melodrama", by definition, should apply only to Grand Opera and it certainly cannot apply here. It is drama without the "melo" unless the incessant bashing of the waves can be considered music. There is suspense and conversation and more suspense and more conversation, with pounding waves throughout. Is there ever a still day in the almost-North Sea? If there were an option, why not choose a quieter day for an evacuation? And take the animals along for the ride ? Has anybody studied how long a sheep can swim, "shorn"? or with a full lanolin fleece life-jacket? --- or not ? Just a thought.I'd like to Google the Island to find the Dare-competition Cliff.

jldmp1 The premise here is the evacuation of St. Kilda, set in the uttermost Shetland Isle of Foula.What strikes the viewer at once is the contrast between the banality of the invented drama with the uniquely cinematic beauty of the island. And, more importantly, the contrast between the flashes of genius in the framing, composition and camera angles with the flat soundstage close ups. It's as if there's two movies going on at once, and Powell lurches us back and forth. The plot itself is a trifle of no concern...what does come through is that the human and livestock presence on the island seems an irritation that nature can't wait to shake off, such is the power of the visuals.The rope rappelling scene is paid tribute to in "For Your Eyes Only"...

nnnn45089191 This early effort by director Michael Powell is simply a stunning visual treat. Shot on location on one of the British isles,the visuals are both dramatic and beautiful.What amazed me was how different this movie was from others I've seen from the same period.It seemed so modern in the way of storytelling. The basic story of the film is quite predictable but the actors commitment heightens the drama's impact. John Laurie is the standout in the cast.But what lingers is the powerful depiction of the harsh life on these isles,constantly battling nature's forces.This movie is a cherished record of a way of life that now has almost completely disappeared. To fans of Michael Powell this is a must-see, and I recommend this amazing film to everybody.