Trio (1950 film)

Poster_for_%22Trio%22_(1950)

Trio is a 1950 British anthology film based on three short stories by W. Somerset Maugham. The film is directed by Ken Annakin and stars James Hayter, Kathleen Harrison, and Nigel Patrick. It was produced by Individual Pictures and released by General Film Distributors in the United Kingdom.

Plot

The film consists of three separate stories, each with its own plot and characters. The first story, "The Verger," follows the life of a church verger who becomes a successful businessman despite lacking formal education. In the second story, "Mr. Know-All," a man named Max Kelada irritates his fellow passengers on a cruise ship with his know-it-all attitude. The final story, "Sanatorium," revolves around a woman named Miss Bishop who visits a sanatorium and forms a bond with another patient.

Cast

• James Hayter as Albert Foreman (in "The Verger")
• Kathleen Harrison as Emma (in "The Verger")
• Nigel Patrick as Henry Garnet (in "Mr. Know-All")
• Wilfred Hyde-White as Mr. Ramsden (in "Mr. Know-All")
• Jean Simmons as Miss Bishop (in "Sanatorium")
• Michael Rennie as Major George Templeton (in "Sanatorium")

Production

"Trio" was adapted for the screen by R.C. Sherriff and Noel Langley. The film was shot in black and white and features a score by Malcolm Arnold. It was well-received by critics and audiences upon its release.

Reception

"Trio" received positive reviews for its performances and storytelling. Critics praised the film for its faithfulness to Maugham's original stories and its ability to capture the essence of his work.

Legacy

"Trio" remains a classic example of British cinema from the 1950s. Its anthology format and exploration of human nature continue to resonate with audiences today.