10/10
Immensely moving drama highlighted by Robert Donat's unforgettable performance.
27 March 2001
Immensely moving drama, highlighted by the incomparable Robert Donat in a remarkable, career-defining performance. The film chronicles the life of devoted schoolmaster Charles Chipping (Donat), affectionately known as `Mr. Chips.' He is introduced as a reserved young man about to realize his dream of teaching at a school for boys. His teaching methods are at first strict and by the book, making him unpopular with his pupils. However, through the love and encouragement of his wife (Greer Garson), he gradually loosens up and throughout the course of the film becomes a beloved institution among students and teachers alike. As Chips' wife and most ardent supporter, Garson makes a strong impression, endowing her character with a simple tranquility that fits just right. However, the heart of the film is Donat's earnest performance, which spans some 58 years of Chips' life with absolute credibility. Donat, whose film career was unfortunately restricted by chronic asthma, won an Oscar for his work here (defeating the likes of Clark Gable in `Gone With the Wind' and Jimmy Stewart in `Mr. Smith Goes to Washington'). Although the film is highly sentimental, it is nonetheless an enjoyable and extremely rewarding experience, and the final scene is unforgettable. A must-see!
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