The Moon is Down (1943) | Directed by Irving Pichel

"The Moon is Down" is a 1943 war drama film directed by Irving Pichel, based on the novel of the same name by John Steinbeck. The film tells the story of a small European town occupied by enemy forces during World War II and the resistance efforts of its inhabitants against the invaders.

Set in an unnamed European country, the film depicts the peaceful town's occupation by a hostile army, led by Colonel Lanser (Cedric Hardwicke). When the townspeople refuse to cooperate with their oppressors, Lanser attempts to win them over with diplomacy and propaganda. However, the resistance movement, led by Mayor Orden (Sir Cedric Hardwicke) and a local coal miner named George Corell (Henry Travers), persists despite the risks. As tensions escalate and the occupiers resort to increasingly desperate measures, both sides grapple with the moral complexities of war and occupation.

While "The Moon is Down" is praised for its timely exploration of themes such as resistance, resilience, and the human cost of war, it has also faced criticism for its somewhat simplistic portrayal of characters and situations. Some reviewers argue that the film's black-and-white depiction of the occupiers and the occupied lacks nuance, failing to fully explore the complexities of collaboration and resistance in wartime. Additionally, the film's pacing is occasionally uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed or underdeveloped.

Despite its shortcomings, "The Moon is Down" remains a powerful and poignant wartime drama, buoyed by strong performances from its cast and a compelling narrative rooted in Steinbeck's source material. Cedric Hardwicke delivers a standout dual performance as both the principled Mayor Orden and the pragmatic Colonel Lanser, bringing depth and gravitas to each role. Henry Travers shines as the resolute George Corell, while other supporting players, including Lee J. Cobb and Dorris Bowdon, contribute to the film's emotional impact. The film's message of resistance and resilience in the face of oppression resonates strongly, offering viewers a compelling portrayal of the human spirit's capacity for courage and defiance.

Sir Cedric Hardwicke as Mayor Orden / Colonel Lanser
Henry Travers as George Corell
Lee J. Cobb as Dr. Winter
Dorris Bowdon as Molly Morden
Margaret Wycherly as Sarah Orden

"The Moon is Down" stands as a notable entry in the cinematic treatment of World War II, offering a stirring and thought-provoking exploration of the moral dilemmas and human struggles inherent in wartime occupation. While it may not achieve the same level of acclaim as other films of its era, it remains a compelling and relevant work that continues to resonate with audiences today.