Rembrandt

Less successful at the time than the earlier Private Life of Henry VIII, but a far better film, thanks to a subtle, touching performance from Laughton as the ageing painter coming to terms with both the death of his beloved Saskia (Lanchester) and an increasing hostility to his work. Surprisingly sombre, it lacks a tight plot, but appeals through its vivid characterisation, superb Vincent Korda sets, and Georges Périnal's lovely camerawork.