Written and directed by Alexander Mackendrick, co-written by Roger MacDougall and John Dighton. Sidney Stratton, a humble inventor, develops a fabric which never gets dirty or wears out. This would seem to be a boon for mankind, but the established garment manufacturers don’t see it that way; they try to suppress it. Starring: Alec Guinness, Joan Greenwood, Cecil Parker, Michael Gough, Ernest Thesiger and Vida Hope.
As soon as you enter the world of The Man in the White Suit, it’s deliciously British and regal. It immediately incapsulates everything that Alexander Mackendrick has to offer. Mackendrick builds this hybrid of classic British comedy and a conspiracy, almost spy-like, drama. He manages to create a tone that’s both playful and sincere. It never becomes a parody of itself, unlike a lot of similar films of its era, the filmmakers recognise perfectly where the line needs to be and walk it without a single wobble.
The ability to capture that balance means that they can create an enthralling story while also being able to have some silly moments here and there. There’s a fantastic tension at work, particularly in the latter half, growing even to the point of thriller territory. The big finale scene sees Mackendrick’s directorial style evolve into something that’s reminiscent of early horror films. It’s drastic and intense while adding this huge note of sadness and a great emotional weight.
All throughout The Man in the White Suit there’s a fantastic commentary about the nature of progress and its downfalls. It follows another classic trait of films of that era and tries to bring a working class perspective into the mix, attempting to champion the workers on the front line. Its only weakness is the progression, things start to slow down a touch too much in the second half leaving it to lose some of its power but it’s a very minor weakness, as it then ends on an absolutely perfect note.
Going back to that balance, you have to acknowledge that part of the reason the filmmakers can pull it off so successfully is the range of Alec Guinness. He will forever remain one of the best actors of his generation, if not of all time, who was able to give his characters layers and complexity. He could switch so seamlessly from comedy to drama, it continues to be impressive now, over seventy years later. Joan Greenwood is also excellent, the writing of her character is equally so, and she’s a dark horse in The Man in the White Suit, never quite revealing herself until the last minute, in satisfying fashion.
The Man in the White Suit is unquestionably a must-watch for any Alec Guinness but also a fantastic piece of British cinema. It may surprise people how much it has to offer and how well Alexander Mackendrick creates that blend between comedy, satire, drama and just a touch of sci-fi. There’s a great deal of thought and creativity to be found in its directorial style, only improved further by the new restoration work. It holds an unexpected, very effective tension and has such an excellent variety of tones and styles to offer.
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