The Light That Failed

The Light That Failed

Directed by William A. Wellman • 1939 • United States
Starring Ida Lupino, Ronald Colman, Walter Huston

Based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling, this handsomely mounted, movingly melancholy adaptation features a sterling performance from Ronald Colman as soldier-turned-artist Dick Heldar, who struggles to complete his final painting—a portrait of London streetwalker Bessie Broke (Ida Lupino)—before he goes blind. Lupino, who personally lobbied director William Wellman for the role of the guttersnipe Cockney model, shines in one of the first performances that won her attention as a serious dramatic actress.

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The Light That Failed
  • The Light That Failed

    Directed by William A. Wellman • 1939 • United States
    Starring Ida Lupino, Ronald Colman, Walter Huston

    Based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling, this handsomely mounted, movingly melancholy adaptation features a sterling performance from Ronald Colman as soldier-turned-artist Dick Heldar, who stru...