26 Mar Waterloo Bridge
Waterloo Bridge, movie starring Vivien Leigh and Robert Taylor
(1940) When I watched the 1956 movie Gaby I learned that it was a remake of Waterloo Bridge, which was originally a Broadway drama and then two movies, one made in 1931, the other in 1940.
From what I have read Waterloo Station in London was its busiest train station, and it is where the soldiers arrived from their wartime activities for a visit to the city. It was on Waterloo Bridge and at the Station where the men who were looking for a good time could find a “date” for the evening.
The 1940 version starred Vivien Leigh, her first role after Gone with the Wind. She carried the entire movie. Her eyes and her facial expressions said everything. I didn’t want to look away for fear I’d miss something. This was at the beginning of her career, and before the worst of her health problems began to affect her life.
This is so far my favorite World War I/II romance. I shall never again listen to the song “Auld Lang Syne” without thinking of the “Farewell Waltz.” at the Candlelight Club. Waterloo Bridge won an academy award for Best Cinematography, and this is just one of the memorable scenes. I’ve already watched it half a dozen times.
Although the real story takes place during World War I, both the beginning and ending scenes are in 1939, just as Britain goes to war.
When Robert Taylor takes one more walk down Waterloo Bridge.
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