The 7th Dawn [DVD]

I was interested because this film had four encouraging aspects: Susannah York, a superb William Holden, the lost beauty of Capucine, and a story set in the Malayan Emergency, in which my father took part. The combination of realistic reconstructions of some of the political issues, and the inter-personal dramas made for compelling viewing. A film with every kind of passion: love, justice, fanaticism, humanity, decency - all human virtue and folly swims about the confusion of a country on the brink. Those who talk idly of the "virtue" or necessity of "revolution" will probably reject the inherent human decency that is revealed in this movie. We may ask: are all imagined and believed "good causes" worth "sacrifice"? Aren't some causes worth sacrificing for a yet greater goodness?

This is an MGM Limited Collection DVD, 16.9 Widescreen Ratio. Good Colour, picture and Sound. No extras. The film tells the serious tale of Holden's fight to keep hold of his land and his concience during the terrorist troubles in Malaya in the 1950's. He is helped/hindered by a lovesick Susanna Yorke (who first appears swimmig nude in a muddy river-Murders/Terrorists- Susannah!! As if!), and the lovely mysterious Capucine who is torn between Holden and Tetsuro Tamba as the guerilla leader and Holden's wartime friend. There is a lot of talk, but plenty of very good action and even tho the film comes in at just over 2 hours it doesn't seem too long. I liked it, but the last 30' were a bit frustrating for me. To say more might be a bit of a "Spoiler". See the film and judge for yourself and see if you feel the same way I did. Could be the start of many comments? Or not!

A rare film centred on the Malayan Emergency of the early 50's which the story-line fairly depicts the political reasons for the emergency but also the dangers for the owners and workers on the rubber plantations from the communist terrorists.I saw the film when it was first released in the mid 60's and having a brother and a number of friends who completed their National Service in Malaya during the Emergency it was always a subject of interest as well as a beautifully shot film with an excellent cast.The film is rarely shown on TV and for some reason is difficult to obtain in CD form hence it was obtained as a US import so I was delighted to eventually track it down via Amazon.Well worth the wait !

UK release for this movie is a pretty poor washed out soft looking print that is presented in an underwhelming 4.3 ratio ( not wide screen ). Very disappointing as the movie has some great location photography which is pretty much lost in this version. It is sad to see that sub standard versions of great movies are still being released.

Perhaps influenced by the fact that I lived in Singapore and frequently visited Malaya in 1952 and 53, I thought this film was as realistic as you are likely to get in a novel. Imperial politics, love story, thriller.... all in one

VERY GOOD DVD

This DVD arrived on time and in good condition. This was an excellent movie, full of the lovely William Holden and two very beautiful women, with suspense, action and drama. What more do you need.

My mum loves William Holden and as she's housebound now, bought her a few dvds to watch. She was over the moon! Good quality picture.