THE BRITISH MONARCHY

Year Published: 1954

Description:

This film from 1954, "The British Monarchy" was originally produced by G-B Instructional Ltd. It provides an overview of the historical and cultural significance of the British monarchy. It highlights the continuity of British traditions from the past to the present, emphasizing how ancient customs and ceremonies, like the coronation ceremony, still hold relevance today. The film also traces the lineage of British monarchs, the evolution of the constitutional monarchy, and the role of the monarchy in modern governance and society. Additionally, the film touches on the Queen's duties and her symbolic role in uniting the British Commonwealth. The film was supervised by C.R.A. Routh and produced by Frank Wells.

0:58 - 1:10: Britain values continuity between the past and present. Ye Olde Curiosity Shop inspired by Charles Dickens shown, as well as street scenes in Oxford.

1:20 - 1:33: Oxford's Merton College, built in Columbus's time, remains relevant today.

1:41 - 1:52: Christ's Hospital students receive a modern education while maintaining traditions.

2:05 - 2:22: The British monarchy is an ancient institution with long-standing traditions.

2:24 - 2:28: The coronation ceremony follows historical customs. Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in 1953.

2:38 - 3:03: King Edward VIII is crowned. Symbols of the coronation ceremony represent Christian faith and regal power.

3:37 - 4:00: Queen Elizabeth II is part of a long line of British monarchs.

4:03 - 5:04: The lineage of British monarchs dates back to King Egbert in 829.

5:07 - 5:18: The monarchy's history is intertwined with that of Parliament.

5:36 - 6:10: History of England book shown. Re-enactment of conflicts between King James I and Parliament over divine authority.

6:12 - 7:02: King Charles I faced strong opposition from Parliament, leading to civil war.

7:04 - 8:12: The trial and execution of King Charles I, and Cromwell's rule.

8:45 - 9:03: Death mask of Oliver Cromwell. The restoration of the monarchy with King Charles II.

9:06 - 9:31: The Glorious Revolution and the establishment of constitutional monarchy.

9:33 - 10:01: Development of the modern parliamentary system under leaders like Robert Walpole.

10:03 - 10:11: Queen Victoria's reign marked stability and prestige for the monarchy.

10:14 - 10:29: The Queen's carriage rumbles by on a London street. The Queen's speech at the opening of Parliament outlines government policy.

10:32 - 11:10: Polling stations are shown on election day in London. General elections ensure the will of the people is expressed.

11:12 - 11:57: Winston Churchill emerges from the polls. The Prime Minister and cabinet are responsible for government policy. The election results are tabulated and announced in the newspapers. The Whitehall buildings are shown as well as 10 Downing Street, where the Prime Minister resides.

12:01 - 12:57: Cabinet members arrive at 10 Downing Street for a conference with the Prime Minister (either WInston Churchill at the time the film was shot, or possibly Clement Attlee). The Queen is kept informed of government actions through dispatch boxes and meetings. A carriage carries papers to Buckingham Palace for the Queen's review.

13:01 - 14:10: The Queen's duties include advising and approving government actions.

14:21 - 15:27: The Queen and King's role during times of crisis, such as World War II. King George VI seen greeting cabinet members and conferring with chiefs of staff, as well as with Winston Churchill.

15:33 - 16:28: The monarch's public and ceremonial duties, representing national loyalty. President Truman greets Queen Elizabeth, who is resplendent in her gown.

16:35 - 17:49: The Queen's role in the Commonwealth and her vow of service.

17:52 - 18:20: The Queen is shown on the Royal Tour of Africa, greeting citizens of the colonies. Her position is shown as a symbol of unity in the British Commonwealth and Empire.