How Green Was My Valley - 1941

How Green Was My Valley

A Majestic Movie of Plain People and the Beauty of their Souls

"How Green Was My Valley" is celebrated for its deep emotional impact, stunning black-and-white cinematography, and a poignant narrative exploring themes of family, community, and the inevitable passage of time.

John Ford's direction received widespread praise for its ability to capture the essence of the novel, bringing the story's setting and characters to life with remarkable depth and sensitivity. The film is often regarded as one of Ford's masterpieces, contributing significantly to his legacy as one of the greatest directors in the history of cinema.

"How Green Was My Valley" is a poignant, emotionally rich film that delves into the life of a Welsh mining community through the eyes of Huw Morgan, a young boy growing up in the heart of the valley. Directed by John Ford and based on the novel by Richard Llewellyn, the film is a reflective journey into the past, exploring the themes of family, community, change, and loss.

Summary

The story is narrated by an older Huw, who reminisces about his childhood in the lush, coal-rich valleys of Wales. The Morgan family, central to the narrative, is a close-knit group led by the patriarch Gwilym Morgan, a respected coal miner. His wife and children, including Huw, live a life deeply rooted in their community, traditions, and the natural beauty of the valley.

As the story unfolds, the tranquility of their existence is gradually eroded by the harsh realities of industrialization. The coal mine, the lifeblood of the valley, becomes a source of strife as workers face dangerous conditions, reduced wages, and layoffs, leading to strikes and conflicts. Amidst this turmoil, the Morgan family endures personal challenges and tragedies, including the loss of loved ones, the struggle for education and a better life, and the pain of unrequited love.

Huw, despite his physical frailties, shows resilience and determination. He witnesses the disintegration of his community and the fading of the idyllic world he once knew. The film captures his journey towards maturity, marked by personal trials, family solidarity, and the loss of innocence.

Analysis

John Ford's direction brings a subtle, yet powerful touch to the film, beautifully capturing the landscape and the changing seasons, which metaphorically reflect the transformation of the community and its values. The cinematography by Arthur C. Miller enhances the narrative's emotional depth, with striking images of the valley's natural beauty contrasted with the grim realities of the mining life.

The performances are exceptional, with Roddy McDowall delivering a poignant portrayal of Huw, capturing the innocence and strength of the character. Donald Crisp, Sara Allgood, Maureen O'Hara, and Walter Pidgeon deliver compelling performances that bring depth to the Morgan family and their community.

The film's music, composed by Alfred Newman, underscores the emotional landscape, weaving together themes of hope, sorrow, and nostalgia. It complements the narrative's exploration of themes such as the passage of time, the resilience of the human spirit, and the inevitable loss that comes with change.

"How Green Was My Valley" is not just a story about a family or a community; it is a universal tale of change, the endurance of love, and the bittersweet nature of memories. It raises questions about progress, the cost of industrialization on human lives and the environment, and the enduring strength of familial bonds.

The film's critical and commercial success, underscored by its Academy Awards, including Best Picture, is a testament to its timeless appeal and the universality of its themes. It remains a powerful, evocative piece that resonates with audiences, inviting reflection on the constants of change and the impermanence of life's seasons.

• Walter Pidgeon as Mr. Gruffydd, the village's new preacher, who becomes involved in the community's struggles and the Morgan family's life.
• Maureen O'Hara as Angharad Morgan, one of the Morgan daughters, whose beauty and spirit capture the heart of Mr. Gruffydd.
• Anna Lee as Bronwyn, Huw's sister-in-law, married to his brother Ivor.
• Donald Crisp as Gwilym Morgan, the patriarch of the Morgan family, a coal miner respected by his peers.
• Roddy McDowall as Huw Morgan, the youngest son of the Morgan family, through whose eyes the story is largely told.
• Barry Fitzgerald as Cyfartha, a miner and family friend.
• Sara Allgood as Mrs. Beth Morgan, the matriarch of the Morgan family, who keeps her family together through various trials.
• Patric Knowles as Ivor Morgan, one of Huw's older brothers.
• John Loder as Ianto Morgan, another of Huw's brothers.
• Richard Fraser as Davy Morgan, one of the Morgan siblings.
• Evan S. Evans as Gwilym Morgan, Jr., another one of Huw's brothers.
• James Monks as Owen Morgan, one of the Morgan siblings.
• Rhys Williams as Dai Bando, a boxer who teaches Huw how to defend himself.
• Lionel Pape as Mr. Parry, the mine owner.
• Morton Lowry as Mr. Jonas, the schoolteacher.
• Arthur Shields as Mr. Evans, a miner and union man.
• Ann E. Todd as Ceinwen, Huw's childhood sweetheart.
• Frederick Worlock as Dr. Richards, the local doctor.
• Ethel Griffies as Mrs. Nicholas, a village elder.

John Ford's direction in "How Green Was My Valley" stands as a testament to his unparalleled ability to weave complex narratives with deep emotional resonance, set against the backdrop of visually stunning landscapes. Ford, known for his mastery of the film medium and his ability to tell profoundly human stories, employs a variety of directorial techniques to bring the novel by Richard Llewellyn to life, achieving a cinematic masterpiece that explores themes of family, community, change, and loss.

Visual Storytelling

Ford's visual storytelling in "How Green Was My Valley" is marked by his use of the lush Welsh landscape (though the film was actually shot in California) to mirror the emotional arc of the story. The valley itself becomes a character, its changing seasons and the encroaching industrial blight paralleling the fortunes and misfortunes of the Morgan family and their community. Ford's use of deep focus cinematography, capturing both foreground and background details sharply, allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the environment, feeling the depth and breadth of the valley and the lives it contains.

Character Development

Under Ford's direction, characters are developed with depth and complexity, each contributing to the fabric of the story in meaningful ways. Ford’s ability to elicit powerful performances from his cast, including standout roles by Walter Pidgeon, Maureen O'Hara, and Donald Crisp, as well as a memorable performance by a young Roddy McDowall, showcases his skill in directing actors to convey subtle emotions and complex internal states. Ford's characters are fully realized individuals, each with their own dreams, struggles, and relationships, making the narrative's exploration of community and change all the more impactful.

Thematic Depth

Ford's direction is particularly adept at exploring the film's rich thematic content. Themes of industrialization's impact on rural life, the erosion of traditional values, and the strength of family bonds are woven throughout the narrative. Ford approaches these themes with a sense of nostalgia, yet avoids sentimentalizing the past. Instead, he presents a nuanced view of progress and loss, inviting the audience to reflect on the costs of change and the enduring importance of community and connection.

Emotional Resonance

Perhaps one of Ford's greatest achievements in "How Green Was My Valley" is the film's profound emotional resonance. Through a combination of narrative pacing, visual symbolism, and musical score, Ford crafts a cinematic experience that is deeply moving. The film's ability to evoke a sense of longing, loss, and love is a testament to Ford's directorial prowess and his understanding of the human condition.

Legacy and Influence

John Ford's direction of "How Green Was My Valley" has left an indelible mark on the landscape of cinema. The film's accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Director, underscore Ford's artistic achievements. Moreover, his work on this film has influenced generations of filmmakers, demonstrating the power of cinema to capture the complexity of human life and the beauty of the natural world.

Arthur C. Miller's cinematography in "How Green Was My Valley" is an exemplary showcase of his skill and artistic vision, contributing significantly to the film's emotional depth and visual storytelling. Miller, a renowned cinematographer with numerous accolades to his name, employed a range of techniques to capture the essence of the Welsh mining community's life and the changing landscape of their environment, despite the entire film being shot in California, USA.

Visual Narrative

Miller's cinematography creates a visual narrative that complements the film's themes and story. He uses the contrast between the lush, green valleys and the encroaching industrial blight to symbolize the transition from innocence to experience and the impact of industrialization on rural communities. His framing and composition pay close attention to the natural beauty of the landscape, juxtaposing it with the harsh realities of mining life to enhance the narrative's emotional resonance.

Lighting and Mood

Miller's use of lighting is particularly noteworthy. He adeptly uses light and shadow to create mood and underscore the film's dramatic moments. His techniques in low-key lighting enhance the texture and depth of the scenes, giving them a poignant, almost ethereal quality that reflects the characters' inner lives and the nostalgia that permeates the narrative. This mastery of lighting contributes to the film's overall atmosphere, drawing viewers into the world of the valley and its inhabitants.

Depth and Composition

Arthur Miller's ability to capture depth and detail in his compositions adds a rich visual layer to the film. He employs deep focus photography to ensure that both the foreground and background elements of a scene are in sharp focus, creating a sense of depth and realism. This technique allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the environment, appreciating the intricacies of the community's life and the expansive beauty of the valley.

Emotional Impact

Perhaps one of the most significant aspects of Miller's cinematography is its contribution to the film's emotional impact. Through his visual choices, Miller amplifies the emotional weight of the narrative, from the joyous moments of community celebration to the somber reflections on loss and change. His ability to convey emotion through visual storytelling enriches the audience's connection to the characters and their journey.

Walter Pidgeon's performance in "How Green Was My Valley" as Mr. Gruffydd, the village preacher, is a nuanced portrayal that stands out for its depth and complexity. Pidgeon brings a profound sense of dignity, empathy, and moral strength to his character, qualities that resonate throughout the film and significantly contribute to its emotional and thematic depth.

Dignity and Authority

Pidgeon's portrayal of Mr. Gruffydd is marked by a natural dignity and authority, making him a central figure in the community he serves. His presence commands respect, not through overt displays of power, but through the inherent decency and integrity he brings to the role. Pidgeon's ability to convey these qualities with subtlety and grace underscores the character's leadership and moral compass in a community facing profound change and adversity.

Empathy and Compassion

Another hallmark of Pidgeon's performance is the empathy and compassion he shows towards the members of the community and the Morgan family in particular. His interactions with the characters, especially Angharad Morgan (played by Maureen O'Hara) and young Huw Morgan (played by Roddy McDowall), are imbued with a gentle understanding and concern for their well-being. Pidgeon's expressive eyes and measured tone of voice convey a deep sense of care and compassion, drawing the audience into the emotional world of the characters and enhancing the film's exploration of human relationships.

Conflict and Resilience

Pidgeon skillfully navigates Mr. Gruffydd's internal and external conflicts, from his unspoken love for Angharad to his challenges in addressing the social injustices faced by the mining community. His performance captures the preacher's struggle between personal desire and professional duty, highlighting the character's complexity and the sacrifices he makes. Pidgeon's nuanced portrayal of these conflicts adds layers to the character, showcasing his resilience and moral fortitude in the face of personal and communal trials.

Romantic Tension

The subtle romantic tension between Mr. Gruffydd and Angharad Morgan is a testament to Pidgeon's skillful performance. He manages to convey a deep, unfulfilled love through restrained glances and moments of quiet longing, creating a poignant sense of what could have been. This restrained portrayal of love adds a bittersweet dimension to the film, enhancing its emotional impact without overshadowing the broader themes of community and change.

O'Hara brings a compelling blend of strength, vulnerability, and radiant beauty to the role, making her character an integral part of the film's emotional core. Her portrayal of Angharad, a young woman caught between her personal desires and the expectations of her community, is both nuanced and powerful, highlighting O'Hara's ability to convey complex emotions and inner conflict.

Strength and Independence

O'Hara's Angharad is characterized by her strong will and independence. From the outset, O'Hara infuses the character with a spirited presence that stands out against the more traditional backdrop of the Welsh mining community. Her assertiveness and determination are evident in her interactions with her family and Mr. Gruffydd, portrayed by Walter Pidgeon. O'Hara's performance captures Angharad's struggle for autonomy and her desire to live a life true to her own values, despite societal pressures.

Emotional Depth and Vulnerability

One of the most striking aspects of O'Hara's performance is her ability to portray a deep emotional vulnerability beneath Angharad's strong exterior. Her nuanced portrayal allows the audience to feel the depth of Angharad's love for Mr. Gruffydd, her pain at their impossible relationship, and her conflict over leaving the valley. O'Hara's expressive eyes and the subtlety of her facial expressions convey a wealth of emotion, from joy and love to heartbreak and resignation, making her character's journey profoundly affecting.

Romantic Tension

The chemistry between O'Hara and Pidgeon adds a palpable romantic tension to the film. O'Hara skillfully navigates the complexities of Angharad's feelings for Mr. Gruffydd, capturing the intensity of their unspoken love and the societal constraints that keep them apart. Her performance in these moments is both restrained and deeply expressive, showcasing her ability to communicate the character's inner turmoil and longing without the need for words.

Contribution to the Film's Themes

O'Hara's portrayal of Angharad significantly contributes to the exploration of the film's themes, including the tension between tradition and change, the sacrifices made for love, and the search for personal identity within a tightly knit community. Her character's journey reflects the broader changes taking place in the valley and the impact of industrialization and social upheaval on individual lives. O'Hara's performance brings a human scale to these themes, making them accessible and emotionally resonant for the audience.

Huw Morgan (narration): "I am packing my belongings in the shawl my mother used to wear when she went to the market. And I am going from my valley. And this time, I shall never return."

This opening line sets a reflective and nostalgic tone for the film, as Huw reminisces about his past and the valley he is leaving behind.
 

Mr. Gruffydd: "Men like my father cannot die. They are with me still, real in memory as they were in flesh, loving and beloved forever. How green was my valley then."

This quote reflects the enduring presence of loved ones who have passed away, emphasizing the film's themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time.
 

Huw Morgan (narration): "Everything was as it used to be on the surface. But down deep, there was a change."

Huw's observation about the subtle yet profound changes within his community underscores the impact of industrialization and social strife on traditional ways of life.
 

Mr. Gruffydd to Huw: "Is your heart strong enough to bear any more shame? It's got to be, see? There's a long way to go yet."

This advice from Mr. Gruffydd to Huw highlights themes of resilience and the challenges of growing up and facing life's hardships.
 

Mrs. Morgan: "There is no fence nor hedge round time that is gone. You can go back and have what you like if you remember it well enough."

Mrs. Morgan's words capture the film's nostalgia and the idea that memories can provide comfort and a sense of continuity with the past.
 

Angharad Morgan to Mr. Gruffydd: "Oh, I know what I'm doing. I know I'm killing my soul by marrying him. But there's no other way."

Angharad's confession to Mr. Gruffydd about her marriage reflects the personal sacrifices characters make in the face of societal expectations and economic pressures.

Academy Awards (1942)

• Best Picture (Won)
• Best Director for John Ford (Won)

• This was Ford's third win in this category.

• Best Supporting Actor for Donald Crisp (Won)

• Crisp won for his role as Gwilym Morgan, the patriarch of the Morgan family.

• Best Art Direction-Interior Decoration, Black-and-White for Richard Day, Nathan H. Juran, and Thomas Little (Won)
• Best Cinematography, Black-and-White for Arthur C. Miller (Won)
• Best Film Editing for James B. Clark (Nominated)
• Best Sound, Recording for Edmund H. Hansen (20th Century-Fox SSD) (Nominated)
• Best Writing, Screenplay for Philip Dunne (Nominated)

• The screenplay was based on the novel by Richard Llewellyn.

• Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic Picture for Alfred Newman (Nominated)
   

Other Awards and Honors

• New York Film Critics Circle Awards (1941)

• Best Picture (Won)

• National Board of Review Awards (1941)

• Best Film (Won)

• National Board of Review Awards (1941)

• Included in the "Top Ten Films" list of the year.
   

The film's critical acclaim was reflected not only in its awards but also in its lasting legacy. "How Green Was My Valley" is often cited as one of the greatest films of its era, showcasing the talents of its cast and crew, and the masterful direction of John Ford. It's worth noting that the movie won the Best Picture Oscar over other iconic films released that year, including "Citizen Kane," highlighting its significant impact and enduring appeal.