An Old Movie Reminds Me of Two Lost Freedoms

A Classic Movie Recommendation: “Watch on the Rhine” (1943)

Looking for a timeless film to watch? Look no further than the 1943 movie Watch on the Rhine, starring Bette Davis and Paul Lukas. This cinematic gem is a must-see for any movie enthusiast.

Without giving away too many spoilers, the movie is set in 1940 in Washington, D.C. and its suburbs, a time when the U.S. was not yet officially at war with Germany. The plot unfolds in a gripping manner, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

One interesting aspect of the film is how it reflects on the economic freedoms of the time. For instance, a character carries a substantial sum of money ($20,000, equivalent to over $400,000 today) without fearing police interference or asset forfeiture. Additionally, the ease of travel is highlighted when a character books a flight under a false name without any ID verification.

Reflecting on the era of the film, it’s fascinating to note how different things were in the past. In 1969, air travel was still relatively unrestricted, with minimal security checks and the freedom to carry cash without scrutiny. This sense of liberty is a stark contrast to the stringent regulations of modern times.

Did You Know? The playwright, Lillian Hellman, and the screenwriter, Dashiell Hammett, were associated with the Communist Party. Despite this, Hellman’s call for international unity against Hitler in “Watch on the Rhine” contradicted the Communist stance at the time. The title of the play is inspired by the German patriotic song “Die Wacht am Rhein.”

With its rich historical context and gripping storyline, “Watch on the Rhine” remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. So, grab some popcorn and immerse yourself in this cinematic masterpiece.