English Without Tears

English Without Tears is a British romantic comedy film released in 1944, directed by Harold French and written by Terence Rattigan. The movie is set in a language school where a group of foreign students is learning the English language in order to improve their chances of marrying into the British aristocracy.

The protagonist, Joe (Michael Wilding), is a language instructor who falls in love with one of his students, Ilse (Penelope Dudley-Ward), a beautiful German aristocrat. However, their love affair is threatened by the presence of Joe's aunt, Helen (Margaret Rutherford), who runs the school and is determined to prevent her nephew from marrying someone she deems unworthy.

The movie is a lighthearted romantic comedy with elements of drama and satire. It explores themes of class, love, and language barriers in a humorous way, as the students struggle to understand British customs and accents, while Joe tries to win the heart of Ilse and confront his aunt's prejudice.

The performances in the movie are top-notch, particularly Margaret Rutherford, who steals many scenes with her sharp wit and impeccable timing. Michael Wilding gives a charming and nuanced performance as Joe, while Penelope Dudley-Ward conveys a sense of vulnerability and innocence as Ilse.

The movie's dialogue is clever and witty, with sharp observations about British society and global politics during World War II. There are also some memorable comic set pieces, such as a scene in which the students must act out a play in English, despite their limited understanding of the language.

Overall, English Without Tears is a delightful and entertaining movie that has stood the test of time. Its blend of romance, satire, and comedy makes it a must-watch for fans of classic British cinema.