Watch The Great Sebastians

The Great Sebastians is a 1946 film directed by Frank Borzage, starring the legendary husband-and-wife acting duo Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. The movie is set in Eastern Europe, where two traveling actors, Anatol and Szentes, arrive in a small town to perform a play about a great magician named Sebastian. The town is under the harsh rule of a dictator who confiscates all the earnings of the townspeople, leaving them poor and deprived. However, the appearance of the two actors stirs up hope among the people, and they see in them their salvation.

Anatol and Szentes soon find themselves embroiled in the town's struggle against the dictator. The story takes a dramatic turn when the dictator becomes aware of the two actors' plan to stage a magic show that aims to fool him and free the town from his grip. The movie presents a thrilling showdown between the ruler and the performers, testing their wits and determination to the limit.

Lunt and Fontanne deliver captivating performances as two aging veterans of the stage, with their signature style of witty banter, impeccable timing, and masterful acting. The movie showcases their chemistry and expertise, highlighting the charming and playful dynamic of their characters.

The Great Sebastians also features a strong supporting cast, including Florence Bates as the eccentric Countess Szereny, Charles Dingle as the ruthless dictator, and Cecil Kellaway as the genial Monsieur Poirot. The characters are well-developed, each with their unique quirks and personalities, adding depth and flavor to the plot.

The movie's themes revolve around the power of art to inspire and transform, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. The town's struggles reflect the political turmoil of the time, as many countries in Eastern Europe were under authoritarian regimes after World War II. The movie offers a message of hope, showing how even in the darkest of times, creativity and humanity can prevail.

The film's direction by Frank Borzage is superb, with his trademark romanticism and visual finesse. The movie's picturesque mise-en-scène captures the charm of Eastern European architecture and costumes, adding to the film's atmosphere of nostalgia and magic.

The Great Sebastians is a delightful and entertaining movie, showcasing the talents of two of the greatest actors of the stage and screen. The film offers a glimpse into the golden era of Hollywood, where storytelling and artistry took center stage. It is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and anyone who appreciates the power of imagination and creativity.