Welcome, dear readers, to another edition of the Sunday Morning Movie! Today, we are diving into an adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband, featuring the talented Jeremy Brett, who is most renowned for his role as Sherlock Holmes from the mid-eighties to mid-nineties.
Next week’s featured film:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl5DydKak1k
Here’s what critics are saying about An Ideal Husband:
Letterboxd remarks:
Jeremy Brett was incredibly charming—an absolute delight to watch.
Although the ending diverged from the original play, I found it quite satisfactory.This production is a gem, considering the budget and techniques available at the time, so I’ve decided to rate it 5 stars.
Another viewer comments:
It was intriguing to see a more serious take on this play. Personally, I tend to favor adaptations that lean into its comedic elements, but this one excels with its wit and fine performances.
A final perspective comes from another fan:
Boasting a remarkable cast—including Margaret Leighton, Keith Michell, Dinah Sheridan, Susan Hampshire, and of course, Jeremy Brett—this adaptation is both clever and engrossing.
While it doesn’t emphasize comedy heavily (which often suits Wilde’s work), it successfully highlights the sharpness of the dialogue and the depth of its characters, especially Lord Goring and Mrs. Cheveley.
This production showcases Wilde at his finest and television at its best, making you deeply invested in the characters. It may just be the pinnacle of adaptations of this story.
In my view:
This delightful show captivated me. My familiarity with Oscar Wilde’s work is limited, making this a remarkable introduction. Brett’s enthusiasm and razor-sharp delivery truly steal the spotlight. This is the kind of television that deserves attention. I’m giving it a solid rating and look forward to watching it again.
Director: Rudolph Cartier
Writer: Oscar Wilde
Notable Actors: Jeremy Brett
Plot Summary (Spoilers Ahead!):
Sir Robert faces a dilemma when a woman from his wife’s past resurfaces, equipped with a potentially damaging secret that could jeopardize both his career and marriage. She threatens to expose him unless he advocates for a government policy that could enrich her further.
Viscount Goring (Brett), Sir Robert’s closest friend, is also familiar with this woman from a previous romantic involvement and pledges to assist his friend at all costs.
Ultimately, after a series of events, the scheming woman finds herself outmaneuvered by Viscount Goring. Just as she prepares one final attempt to ruin Sir Robert, fortune intervenes, permitting her to flee London and allowing Sir Robert to reclaim his once happy life.
Bonus Segment:
There is compelling evidence suggesting the continuation of consciousness after death. Check out this talk with Dr. J. Kim Penberthy from the University of Virginia’s Department of Perceptual Studies:
About Dr. J. Kim Penberthy, Ph.D., ABPP:
Dr. J. Kim Penberthy is the Chester F. Carlson Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. As a licensed, board-certified clinical psychologist, she is a distinguished clinician, educator, and researcher. Her work focuses on the intersection of clinical psychology, contemplative science, and spiritually transformative experiences.
A long-standing faculty member at UVA’s Division of Perceptual Studies, her research examines the therapeutic implications of extraordinary human experiences, encompassing near-death communications and the clinical applications of altered states of consciousness. Currently, she is leading a pioneering clinical trial using psilocybin therapy to help individuals grappling with prolonged grief disorder. Dr. Penberthy’s work merges rigorous scientific investigation with a profound commitment to human well-being, earning her recognition as a leader in the study of consciousness, healing, and meaning-making in clinical contexts.
