Ealing Rarities: Midshipman Easy is an enchanting British maritime adventure film made in 1935, featuring the remarkable talents of film stars Hughie Green, Margaret Lockwood, and many others. The movie, which runs for 79 minutes, is part of a distinguished series known as 'The Ealing Rarities Collection'. This series is treasured for its contribution to film history, specifically for the forgotten gems produced by Ealing Studios during the first half of the 20th century.

Hughie Green takes the center stage with his enthralling performance as Midshipman Easy, an endearing young boy belonging to a wealthy family. Green's supremely convincing portrayal absolutely nails the character's sense of noble adventure, injecting the role with vigor and charm. Born in a prosperous British family, Midshipman Easy adopts a carefree attitude towards life, a perspective that contrasts sharply with the harsh realities awaiting him in the professional world.

The plot kicks off when Mr. Easy, the young protagonist’s father, played by the Oscar-nominated actor Harry Tate, sends him to a harsh naval academy to learn discipline and adapt to society's norms. This decision is prompted by the belief that indulgence could make his son weak and incapable of dealing with life’s challenges.

The backdrop of life in a naval academy provides insight into the rigorous training and harsh discipline endured by the midshipmen, which includes the titular character. Hughie Green brilliantly showcases the transformation of Midshipman Easy from a pampered son of a well-to-do family to an assertive and disciplined navy officer. His youthful spirit, determination, and ultimately his courage, make him a captivating figure and the film's driving force.

The plot also carries romantic depth, and that's where Margaret Lockwood comes into the picture. Playing the character of Donna Agnes, Lockwood skillfully portrays the young woman's innocence and beauty. Her impeccable acting skills bring life to the character, making her a significant presence despite her limited screen time. The chemistry between Green and Lockwood adds emotional complexity to the plot, proving that Midshipman Easy is not clad in iron – he also has a softer side.

This film is endowed with strong secondary characters, too, making every inch of the plot intriguing, with relationships and events that skillfully feed into the central plotline. The midshipmen, captains, and even antagonists play their parts with conviction, making the story compelling, keeping the audience immersed throughout the story.

What sets Ealing Rarities: Midshipman Easy aside from other films of its era is its smooth storytelling, which is packed full of adventure, raw emotion, bravery, camaraderie, and the reality of social class divergence in the navy. It combines entertaining and engaging storytelling with quality acting and a stunning backdrop of naval life, thus effectively keeping viewers tied to their seats.

Ealing Rarities: Midshipman Easy takes the viewer on a ride filled with sea exploits, life-threatening challenges, and romantic interludes, underpinning a young man’s journey to maturity. It investigates a young man's mission to balance his innate ebullience with the tradition, principles, and rigorous discipline of naval life. The character development, humor, fundamental human emotions, and elements of high-seas adventure makes it captivating and compelling viewing for all.

The film is noted for its beautiful sets, exceptional costuming, and breathtaking cinematography that capture the essence of the British naval life of the time. It is sprinkled with light-hearted moments that provide a breathtakingly refreshing contrast to the dominant theme of discipline and duty. The dialogue is sharp and filled with stand-out one-liners that echo the unique wit and charm of British cinema.

Ealing Rarities: Midshipman Easy is a delightful journey into the world of adolescence, training, responsibility, romantic encounters, and life at sea, woven into a feature film marked by absorbing performances and riveting storytelling. The on-screen charisma between Hughie Green and Margaret Lockwood makes the adventure on the high seas of the British Royal Navy a cinematic triumph and adds a significant entry into the golden era of British cinema. One must watch this film to delve into its rich, intricate world and to witness a slice of history from one of the most renowned British film production studios.