Bequest to the Nation (1973)
Set before the Battle of Trafalgar, this is the story of relationship between Admiral Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton during the Napoleonic Wars.
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Highly Overrated But Still Good
Although it has its amusing moments, in eneral the plot does not convince.
The performances transcend the film's tropes, grounding it in characters that feel more complete than this subgenre often produces.
The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.
A well acted drama which for me was more suited to "The Taming of the Shrew" than an accurate representation of Nelson and Lady Hamilton's relationship. Concentrating entirely on the short time that Nelson spent at home between 2 years at sea chasing the French and leaving for Trafalgar in 1805, the film essentially explores the tensions between the characters arising from his infatuation with Emma Hamilton. Although, in many ways, well researched, for me the film script lacked authenticity in characterisation and was somewhat contrived. I find it hard to believe that Emma's behaviour would have ever been so extreme in company in spite of her undoubted real life lapses into vulgarity, or that Nelson, whose first thought was always for Country and glory, could ever have considered not going to battle because of her. The role played by young George Matcham and the final meeting between Emma and Lady Nelson for me were unconvincing and contrived as actual historical events. If you want a well written, absorbing, well acted drama then this is for you. If your interest lies in the accurate characterisation of real, larger than life, historical figures read a good biography.
Peter Finch gives a brilliant performance as Nelson in this colorful, superbly photographed film. Glenda Jackson gives a fine performance as Lady Hamilton, but Finch stands out in this film, as the central character of focus. Too bad it is not on video or disc 10/10.