There were two main reasons for seeing this version of 'Uncle Vanya'. One is the source material, which is one of Chekhov's best in mood and characterisation. Though not one of his most accessible for those not too fond of lots of talk and the lack of likeable characters, which is true for Chekhov in general but particularly apparent in 'Uncle Vanya'. The other is Franchot Tone, not just starring as Astrov (one of his most ambitious roles and a departure one) but also co directing and producing.
Personally found this version of 'Uncle Vanya' a worthy one. It is not a perfect production and there is a strong preference for the Laurence Olivier version, which to me was even more powerful and had an even stronger cast with none of the problems that this had. 'Uncle Vanya' is not an easy play to adapt or perform, but to me there is a lot to admire here and it didn't come over as a vanity project or like Tone was biting off more than he could chew despite taking on three jobs.
Beginning with the not so good things, the film is very stagy and too much of a filmed play at times in drama and in some static camera work. The sets are not the most appealing to look at, with them having a cardboard look.
The tone of the play is not always nailed, the dramatic, tragic aspect is spot on but the more satirical, less tragic side is missed.
However, this 'Uncle Vanya' is very well acted all round from nobody coming over as melodramatic, Vanya is easy to overplay and luckily wasn't. Especially from Tone who gives a rich, nuanced performance. Dramatically, the film is powerful with the despair in particular being brought out very movingly. It is also very intelligent and never resorts to bad taste.
Costumes are sumptuous and the medium close ups are similarly beautifully done, the camera work wasn't perfect by any stretch but a couple of the techniques did come off well and this one did. Chekhov's text, while talky, is as complex, thought provoking, intense and poignant as ever.
Overall, not the most ideal version of 'Uncle Vanya' but lots to admire here. 7/10.
