Shakespeare, Performance, and the Psychology of Adaptation in George Cukor's "A Double Life" (1947)

Following extended consultations with noted Shakespearean actor/manager Walter Hampden, Colman eased his way into the part; his efforts were rewarded with a Best Actor Oscar in 1948 (the only Oscar he ever received in a lengthy movie career). While A Double Life offers a fascinating example of Shakespeare's tragedy performed in the grand manner characteristic of late-nineteenth- and early twentieth-century romantic actors, it appears to show how interpretations of Shakespeare (especially in terms of acting styles) have shifted since the late Victorian era, when actor-managers toured the country as well as playing on Broadway with their repertoires. [...]he took what was for him the safest option and used the screenplay to explore what might happen if individuals lose that mindfulness that helps to preserve their sanity as well as their reputations.