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Poster for The White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover

Seen it?

1944 | 126 min | Drama, War, Romance

Saturday Specialearly rating

Why it’s a Saturday Special

It earned strong reviews (80% on Rotten Tomatoes), despite a box office flop. A strong pick for the weekend.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
One for fans of medical drama and anyone in the mood for a love story. Life-and-death stakes, often at a run. Sits nicely alongside Doctor Zhivago or Gone with the Wind. Very British, in all the best ways.
The mood
Intense, warm and romantic.
The pace
Lets scenes breathe, at 2 hr 6 min.
What might put you off
  • Made in 1944: an older pace and style.
  • Skip it if you need something light and fast tonight.

American Susan travels with her father to England for a vacation. Invited to a society ball, Susan meets Sir John Ashwood and marries him after a whirlwind romance. However, she never quite adjusts to life as a new member of the British gentry. At the outbreak of World War I, John is sent to the trenches and never returns. When her son goes off to fight in World War II, Susan fears the same tragic fate may befall him too.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    80% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesNot counted

    Not measured yet: not enough ratings

  • AwardsBelow par

    Nominated for 1 Oscar.

  • Box office & staying powerWeak

    $6 million worldwide

  • Buzz & cultural impactBelow par

    About 11K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Clarence Brown

  • Irene DunneSusan Dunn
  • Alan MarshalJohn Ashwood
  • Roddy McDowallJohn Ashwood II as a Boy
  • Frank MorganHiram Porter Dunn
  • Van JohnsonSam Bennett
  • C. Aubrey SmithWalter Forsythe
  • May WhittyNanny
  • Gladys CooperJean Ashwood
  • Peter LawfordJohn Ashwood II as a Young Man
  • John WarburtonReggie Ashwood