The Scarlet Pimpernel (1934 film)

The Scarlet Pimpernel (1934 film) is a British historical adventure film directed by Harold Young, based on the 1905 novel The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy. The film stars Leslie Howard as Sir Percy Blakeney, a wealthy English baronet who leads a double life. Ostensibly a foppish dandy, Blakeney secretly operates as the Scarlet Pimpernel, rescuing French aristocrats from the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. Merle Oberon plays Marguerite St. Just, Blakeney's wife, and Raymond Massey portrays the ruthless revolutionary Paul Chauvelin, the Pimpernel's adversary.

The film follows Sir Percy's elaborate and daring missions to save innocent lives from the guillotine. He employs disguises, wit, and strategic planning to outsmart Chauvelin and his agents. Marguerite, unaware of her husband's clandestine activities, is manipulated by Chauvelin into unwittingly aiding in the Pimpernel's capture. The film explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, love, and deception amidst the backdrop of political upheaval and social injustice.

The 1934 film is considered a classic and is notable for Howard's portrayal of Sir Percy Blakeney, which is often regarded as definitive. It was one of Alexander Korda's London Film Productions' most successful ventures and spawned sequels, including The Return of the Scarlet Pimpernel (1937), in which Howard reprised his role, and numerous adaptations across different media throughout the years. The film is praised for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and historical setting, contributing to its enduring popularity.