RIP Sylvia Syms who played Laura so passionately and strong and convincingly. When Dirk Bogarde won his Bafta lifetime award he said several actresses declined to be in Victim because they disapproved of the films theme or content. But Sylvia came onboard very late without any conditions and jumped right I and for that Dirk and Director Basil Dearden were incredibly grateful. The film wouldn’t have worked without her performance!!!
@@patthewoodboyYes Dirk said it was offered to a more famous actor who turned the role down because he thought it “would cost him a chance at a knighthood if he took the role”. Basil Dearden sent the script to Dirk on Christmas Eve 1960 while Dirks father,and Tony Forwood and French actress Capucine were decorating the tree. Capucine encouraged Dirk to make the film.
I saw this maybe 25 years ago, never knew the name of it. Been trying to find it. I remember the compassion between the husband and wife, and I’m very happy to be able to finally see it again.
The courage it took for dirk to make this film in1961 fourteen years into his film career is amazing at the apex of his popularity dirk put his career and future on the line by making victim. In a 1971 interview with Barry Norman dirk said victim was a very brave and courageous film a film basil Dearden has never received proper credit or recognition for Sylvia Syms is awesome she is so heartbreakingly beautiful and an excellent actress a terribly underrated actress I’ve heard that about twenty other actresses passed on victim because according to dirk they didn’t like the content but Sylvia came aboard without any preconditions
@@steffanhoffmann Well Glynis Johns Welsh Actress/ singer just passed away age 100. Her Husband Tony Forwood was Dirks agent/ Manager and from 1948-89 Dirks partner as he left Glynis for Dirk. You might want to watch “The Private life of Dirk Bogarde part 2 deals with why Dirk chose to do Victim and features Sylvia Syms watching herself on film 40 years earlier. Also features Gareth Forwood Glynis and Tony’s son.
I watched this a long time ago, and found it just as gripping second time round. It gives me the creeps to be reminded of what life in a so-called civilized country was like for gay men back then. Even after partial decriminalisation in 1967 there was a lot of discrimination and prejudice for many years. An outstanding film.
Thank you. "Victim" is one of those movies one hears about but never gets to see. You have provided a great service to those of us who like and need to see our history. That's an amazing film and deserves the praise I've read about. It also deserves to be seen. Thank you again for making that possible.
I just watched it during LGBT History Month. Such a dramatic film. Sinister music. Thought the blind guy was up to no good. Great twist in the end. A dark patch on British social history.
@@donsarde However under a democratic system; everyone has the right to an opinion. No need to use these 👉!!!!👈 considered to be the way of rude people. Two nations do it the most, this 👉!!!!!👈 Russia and France. The former, because the legacy of the communist ideology, where they thought they were the greatest; but in reality invented little. (Where homosexuality is illegal by the way). The latter because it seems, they like to stress the meaning of something. Both nations destroyed aristocrats; in a bloody debauched way. Nothing to boast about.
I agree it's his life, if he wanted to make things public than that's his choice ,i personally don't care ,if he liked men or women ,I like his film and his books !!!!!🤗🇬🇧
@@mariaevans5793 Ignoramus seemingly, liking your own posting. Britannica Dictionary definition of IGNORAMUS: A person who does not know much. What is a sentence of ignoramus? a person who knows nothing: "I'm a complete ignoramus where asterisks are concerned"
@@monikaszymanowska5142 He came from a generation that couldn't admit it openly because it was illegal. He was also a private person. You are certainly right about his films. I love his acting. He was a great character actor and one of the best Britain has ever produced. My earliest recollection of him is the film 'Our mothers' house'. It's a classic among many.
@@rexterrocks Nice to meet a co-fan:-) I would never say he was a character actor, for me he was always a lead. First seen in Spanish Gardener. The range of titles and directors in his CV is awesome, with Night Porter, Accident and La caduta degli dei among many - all of them kinky and frightening. I can't imagine how hard and dark his personal life was...
Thank you Mark. A very brave and important (as well as excellent in every cinematic sense) British movie. It's timing at the beginning of the Sixties , was relevant. A sign that attitudes and challenges were at last beginning to be addressed in the main stream. Kudos to all involved for putting it all on the line.
As much as one might think that we've come a long way from such victimization, sadly blackmail is still perpetrated in many cultures, where being gay is still viewed as a mark of shame. Just recently, I received a frantic phone call from a Peruvian friend, who said he was being extorted for a considerable amount of money. If not paid, his mother would be told that he was gay. Despite seeking advice from me, the fear in his voice was overwhelming, indicating that no matter what I said, he would pay. No doubt, he was his own victim, but a target nonetheless. Thank you for posting this exceptional film, and may it serve as a reminder to never be ashamed of who we are.
And if someone is a paedophile, or a thief, or someone who tortures, or someone who recklessly spreads disease to other people, you don’t think they should be ashamed of who they are?
@@Woodman-Spare-that-tree If someone does ANY of the qualities you named, that someone should not only be ashamed; that person should be put in prison. But what have those qualities got to do with being gay?
The pub scenes from 4:50 were filmed in a real pub, the Salisbury (St Martin's Lane, London) which was a gay pub for most of the 20th century. Fortunately, by the 1980s, we were living in more enlightened times than pre-1967 (when homosexual acts were still illegal in England). It was at the Salisbury that, at the age of 23 in 1981, I met the love of my life. We celebrate 40 years together next year.
So you honestly believe these are "more enlightened" times today... with blasphemous "ceremonies" being displayed in public... in front of innocent children, at the Paris Olympics, on Joe Biden's White House lawn... and through "woke" advertising media? #JesusIsKing
A thousand thanks to you, MarkSentMe, for uploading the copy of this film. What an utterly ground-breaking piece of cinema!! I am so excited to have found this by chance tonight, and am deeply impacted by the bravery of all who participated in making this film. I feel a deep sense of gratitude to all of them, and not least due to showing the protagonist, barrister Farr, as the most coherent and upstanding of all the characters. Amazing when one thinks of the epoch in which this film was produced!
@@anotherpet2 I see very little difference, there is still a very high level of homophobia in the UK and it's still illegal in more than 70' countries ! There has been progress but it's only really the law that has changed, not personal attitudes ! There is acceptance but I think a majority of it is actually tolerated cos now the law will can work against discrimination but there is also homophobia in the police , the Army and in sport, you only need to look at the statistics to see the reality of it, the LGBT community seriously need to wake up to remain safe. In some , if not most, it is still much safer the stay in the closet and remain private as it has nobodies business what they get up to behind closed doors. They still there is still a long way to go, yes, but it's so much longer than they think !! Homophobic attacks has increased in the last five years.
I love Dirk Bogarde for having been brave enough as a person, and as an actor, to take roles that challenged close-minded and demeaning social restrictions. Thanks for posting this -- a great drama and a great social document.
The *restrictions * seem less social than legal J.J, because that appears to be the precise distinction which the character of Mr Farr appears at great pains to highlight.
THANK YOU! I've heard about this movie for years. What's surprising is not only the completely sympathetic tone - the police inspector's ripostes to the detective about how "if all aberrant behavior were illegal," the police would have too much to do - but the excellent plot line. Even if you're not interested in the gay angle, it's worth seeing for the whodunit aspects. This was a period when British cinema was carving out a niche as real lives brutally honest and intelligent, and working-class stars like Alan Bates, Michael Caine and Julie Christie were breaking through the highbrow ceiling imposed on British actors.
I like what you said Steve, but this is just great drama and this was an icoic time for social history and movement. This should be watched as purely great English/British cinematic brilliance. THere are no digital effects and the music and drama is real, not false and the humour and dialogue is typically reserved, sadly an issue for North Americasns who want it loud brash and fleshy in your face. I personally accept the socail changes but would wish to return to those times as people had manners. Nowadays everyone assumes they have a right to speak but sadly the message is alwats interjoined with foul, abusive and impersonal judgement. We really have not moved forwards in realistic terms, but well done, I agree with your sense of respect too. Hollywood is lost and great studios like Pinewood, Elstree and others are gone wth the dust of the real silver screen, sad. There also was no other like Silvia Sims, what apowerful and evocative woman and great beautiful talented actress, bless them all. Cheers.
Superbly made film with exquisite nuances. The script could have fallen over into cliches, but is an example of strong and brave writing. Wow. To see such moral strength from all involved tells you how strong were the shoulders that today's freedom stands on. Thanks for the opportunity.
While looking at the film lineup for the upcoming 2021 Turner Classic Film Festival, May 6-9, I saw the film 'Victim' among those to be shown. Not being familiar with the film, I thought it was Film Noir. Then I read the description of the film and am watching it now. What a powerful, brave film for 1961. Thank you for posting this important work of cinema.
I've never heard of this film until seeing it mentioned in a Dirk Bogarde interview elsewhere on TH-cam. Thank you for posting it! I'm shocked at how openly the subject matter was addressed, and happy to see homosexuality described in non-hysterical terms.
@@steffanhoffmann Unnatural how? You do realize we are in the 21st century, right? You do know many don't care about procreation? You know that love is *NOT* defined by society anymore. You also know that WHO you love is also *NOT* defined by society anymore. Do you know how many people are on the DL because they want to please society? Times have changed, and I feel sorry for those who can't keep up - you will just be miserable; you are not hurting those living and enjoying their best life.
Excellent film. My Thanks are due to the person who posted this onto TH-cam. This is the film that gave Dirk Bogarde his ticket to a wider range of roles. Mr. Bogarde was itching to get into arthouse pictures and, European cinema. 'Victim' shone the light on him. 'The Servant' simply cemented his new reputation. When 'Victim' was first released, people were queueing round the block to get into cinemas to see it. Well, they were in London at any rate. 'Victim' also helped to get the archaic law against homosexuality repealed, in England and Wales. I'm unsure about Scotland as they have an entirely different legal system. So, cheers all round then.
Dirk himself was gay. I wonder how he felt when playing this part as he himself had kept it a secret. But i am sure many knew in the acting circles. Dirk is a wonderful actor!!
By 1960/61 Bogarde (1921 - 1999) was the most popular British actor having achieved fame in the comedy Doctor series and then graduated to having the image of a suave leading man and war action hero. The film's makers had approached several actors including James Mason and Jack Hawkins who turned the role down - they had similar trouble finding an actress to play the loyal wife until Sylvia Sims agreed. Bogarde himself wrote the scene where his character confesses to his wife that he is gay and continues to have an attraction for men despite previous denials. Both Bogarde and Sims were putting their careers at risk because of the bigotry and bias in society then. Bogarde who himself was gay aid in 1988 that this role was "The wisest decision I ever made in my cinematic career." It was a trailblazing and important film - the first ever to include the word "homosexual" and, while fairly popular, was not a huge box office hit.
A remarkably courageous (and landmark) film for 1961. Both Dirk Bogarde and Sylvia Syms are to be congratulated for their unnerving tanacity in taking on these (at the time) highly controversial roles. Love the street scenes shops, Wolseley police cars and cigarettes! Thank you for uploading.
A very brave film, very brave performance by Mr. Bogarde - as well as all parties involved in making of this film. I always try to watch this at least once every couple of years. It's important to not forget.
I am so impressed. Technically the film is superb, Dick Bogart's acting is astonishing... as for the story, a beautiful lesson of courage and integrity, it conveys strength and hope for human beings.
The movie has become an icon in the homosexual community and was a brave movie when first released. But putting aside all the talk of "inverts", and human behaviour that was at that time a criminal offence, the film works because it is a genuinely good suspense drama, with fear as its catalyst, beautifully acted, a few red herrings, some genuine human emotions on show and while Bogarde and Sylvia Sims are excellent as the leads, I think some of the smaller character players truly shine, for example, Charles Lloyd Pack, superb as a fussy little man in 100s of 1950s and 1960s movies, here deeply moving as the nervous old hairdresser. In real life Pack was the father of Roger Lloyd Pack, much loved British comedy actor in "Only Fools And Horses" etc.
Thank you William well said. Great movies amke great heroes and heroines but it is is the whole cast and the writing and production, cheers and thanks for the knowledgeable input too, God bless them all and Trigger, Dave.
@@michaelangood YES I THOUGHT ABOUT THE DESTINATION OF THE £20 AND WHY WAS AN ANONYMOUS YOUNG CHAP GOING INTO A LORRY CAFE known to be wanted MINOR POINTS IN PRODUCTION BUT PIVOTAL TO THE STORY .
Have seen this film on TV many years ago. Excellent film. Thank God I'm gay in the 21st Century. To be gay in the 40s, 50s and 60s must have been so sad. Thanks for downloading.
A very great film! Shows society at it's lowest, ugliest and most destructive. Everyone should be forced to walk other's shoes. I'm really in awe of Dirk Bogarde, a very advanced and great man.
Thank you for posting this movie, I’ve seen it before, but always enjoy seeing Dirk again. It really took England a long time about changing the law on this topic. A shame!
Interesting. As someone who lived through the fifties and sixties as a gay man, I don't think I ever felt fearful of being 'outed'. Of course some very famous people were and indeed went to prison but we lived our lives, perhaps dangerously, in pubs, clubs, cottages without a qualm. A groundbreaking film and brave of Bogarde to play the part under the circumstances. How much has changed and yet there are still those who dare not come out.
Michael Gouda ..Very distressing times for gay people...Reputations and careers could be ruined, just by someone hinting that such and such a person might not be kosher. Blackmailing was rife in the community, especially against men who preferred the company of young lads.
Well, I only liked guys of roughly my own age. But that was such an age ago it seems like a different world. I wrote a short story about my life then. It was called 'Having Fun'. I'm not sure if you can get it but you can try on tanyard.plus.com
Perhaps they do not wish 'to come out' as the contemporary effeminate and insulting terminology has it. Homosexuals are stuck with being homosexual. Not all of them wish to be 'gay'. For many people, and living neither 'in' nor 'out' works. The separatist philosophy of the 'gay' movement and the ghettoised 'gay' lifestyle is unattractive to many. Being 'out' can be just as unhappy as being 'in the closet'. There is more than one way of living your life. Good luck to homosexuals who have to adjust as best they can to a condition they did not choose and cannot change! I hope they find some happiness in life, whichever path they choose. As a result of ongoing research, one day homosexuals may be able to become heterosexual and then sexuality will be a choice. What a happy day that will be! May it come soon!
i agree. i've read some of his books.i have never met my girlfriends in toilets.a homosexual habit, which i find rather sordid.. cast a dark shadow was another of dirk's films
One of the actors Dennis Price was blackmailed all of his acting career because of his sexuality which makes his appearance in this film doubly impressive.
Such a sad life. He tried to commit suicide several times and was heartbroken when he lost access to his children. Apparently he was a lovely man whose memorial (referencing his most famous role) reads "Kind hearts are worth more than coronets."
@jack freeman: that remark seems flawed because the Sexual Offences Act (which decriminalized homosexuality) was given the Royal Assent in 1967, whereas the career of the actor to which you allude extended beyond that. Moreover, not-with-standing his sexuality, is there any evidence that he was actually blackmailed because of it?
After the Montague Case of 1954 and the resulting books by Peter Wildeblood there was genuine sympathy from many heterosexuals for the impossible situation gay men faced legally and socially. This film shows that Britain was ready to change.
I’ve known of this movie for years. This the first time that I’ve seen it. It’s an outstanding piece of film making of a period in the not too distant past. Thankfully things have changed for the better in a lot of countries. Unfortunately there are still some nations where this is still possible.
Thumbs Up and Subscribed. THANK YOU for posting this movie. This film impacted British law regarding blackmail, and led to the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1967. Dirk Bogarde was the main reason this film received critical attention and audience attendance.
But, at the time it was made, it is credited for creating some of the change in beliefs that brought about the end of the Sexual Offences Act in 1967. It's a brave film. Like The Imitation Game, its importance cannot be denied.
More likely to be a kind of predictive programming, given that the Wolfenden Report had already appeared in 1957. The British Establishment is a lumbering but inexorable juggernaut.
"predictive programming" Are you trying to say "Self-fulfilling prophecy"? Why is that "more likely" than the perfectly reasonable "instrumental" of the original post? The Wolfenden Report was instrumental too, at the time there was a sea-change in attitude. The change was not necessarily "pro-gay", so much as a realisation that society itself was disadvantaged by institutionalised persecution and prejudice. Legalisation was undertaken grudgingly by the powers that be, and nobody was under any misapprehension that the British Establishment had suddenly gone all soft and forgiving.
No, Johnny. If I'd meant to say that I would have just said it, wouldn't I? Not the same thing at all. Law of identity or something like that, I think.
A powerful and moving film, portraying the devastating situation of so many gay men in the 60's, suffering from blackmail and closeted as a result of outdated Victorian norms & laws. DB - as usual was brilliant in his role as the Barrister. Was awesome seeing London in the early 60's.
I remember watching this film many years ago and still get so angry, thinking about what so many men went through. This film was so well done and I thank you for showing it.
This film seems less about 'gay rights', than exposing the brutal injustice to which many gentle and harmless people were subjected. Mr Farr (by virtue of his social standing) could've escaped from all but marital opprobrium for his indiscretion, but chose instead to 'stand up' for the victims of common bigotry and legal prejudice, and so bring the real criminals to justice. The respective focus of the inspector and his sergeant are well expressed.
No, this is specifically a movie about the injustice suffered by gay people -- who were THROWN IN JAIL SIMPLY FOR BEING WHO THEY WERE -- not one about injustice in general. Go back to the part where Farr meets with the three men and listen to the dialogue; it is an almost-slightly-clumsy -- but utterly necessary -- push for those ridiculous laws to be overturned, laws that were insane and inhumane and utterly opposed to democratic ideals. ....... Also, why the quote marks around _gay rights_? Quote marks, when used around material that isn't being quoted, are used to denote smarminess, snottiness, flippancy; if that's not your intention, then perhaps avoid quote marks in future. Cheers.
Quote marks are double parentheses J.J, single ones are merely emphatic of colloquial or idiomatic expression . I already stated 'up front' that the film exposed "the brutal injustice to which many gentle and harmless people were subjected". The implication of your objection, consequently, can only be that 'gay rights' are more important to you than the justice for which Mr Farr obviously fought and risked much.
Dirk Bogarde one of my favorite actors EVER!! This character part had to be very difficult for him during this time knowing that he was playing character.
Seems almost provincial. It's not long ago that homosexuality was a crime, in GB. Blackmail is a most evil crime. Living in fear, and never knowing where it ends. Adore Dirk Bogarde. Courageous actor.
aww poor lil' dirkie haha had to live in "such a time." sure beats the time we are in ! by a lot ! .i got to live thru the 50's &60's and those yrs. were very special.....50's no ->drugs, messcons, blacks,queers, cussing , divorce, racist( all the same race),some fist fights, polite, shirts tucked in for boys, no safety concern, no child sex(heard about).no door locking, windows open at nite(miss that so much), no seat belts, && etc.etc. 2 parents for every kid, only heard the word divorce in my senior yr. we said pg-not pregnant, & wore maternity tops-nothing tight. ha ha u missed out!!
Great movie The Late MrBogarde was such an amazing actor I wish his life has been easier. But along with Talent God gave him a lot of coverage. And this movie shows how much courage it took to be who you're meant to be
What's great about this film, is that Dirk Bogarde played the role despite the fact he himself was homosexual; the saddening truth being that he (amongst many others I'm sure) were afraid of being judged by a society unwilling to accept.
Elr James I was 20 in 1961 when this film was made. I can remember people talking about the Queer film. Although the word Gay was around - I don't remember it used that often, even in Homi circles. The Sexual Offences Act 1967 was an Act of Parliament in the United Kingdom (citation 1967 c. 60). That is six years after this film was made. It decriminalised homosexual acts in private between two men, both of whom had to have attained the age of 21. The Act applied only to England and Wales and did not cover the Merchant Navy or the Armed Forces. Homosexuality was decriminalised in Scotland by the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980 and in Northern Ireland by the Homosexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 1982. An Act may be passed by the State but social understanding and tolerance takes a lot longer. The Stonewall riots were a series of spontaneous, violent demonstrations by members of the LGBT community against a police raid that took place in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn, located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. Gay Activists were on the march!!!!!!!
You can't force anyone to like or tolerate you! Although laws exist now for tolerance and equality people still express themselves in in angry and threatening ways. The Jews, the blacks understand this and now moderate Muslims are all tarred with the same brush! I am 73 so brash activism is not for me but hopefully I am able to explain things to willing listeners! Hope you are enjoying your life!
They weren't just afraid of being judged by society, they were afraid of being arrested, prosecuted, convicted and sent to prison! And of course their trials would be reported in the newspapers, they would lose their jobs and become unemployable, and they would be rejected by their families and many of their friends. Faced with all of that, some would take their own lives. The law and society have come a long way since those days.
Well don't you think "...being arrested, prosecuted, convicted and sent to prison! And of course their trials would be reported in the newspapers, they would lose their jobs and become unemployable, and they would be rejected by their families and many of their friends" constitutes 'society'?
"Victim" (1961) is dated now, but this does not reduce either its importance, or Dirk Bogarde's bravery for appearing in it. This was the first English language, commercial, film to raise the subject of the need for legal reform regarding homosexuality. Indeed, it was the first such film in which the word 'homosexual' was used The film could not have been made without Bogarde's name above the title and his box office clout from his Rank matineee idol days (a status he risked simply by appearing in this film). Bogarde is especially convincing in the role of a married barrister with a romantic friendship with a younger man. This is not surprising. He wrote much of his own dialogue in key scenes with his wife (Sylvia Sims).
This was superb, riveting & disgusting at the same time. Thank you for putting this on your channel. The heartache so many people had to endure back in the day & who paved the way for the young people of today. Sadly some are still doing this to innocent people today. This was ahead of it's time in 1961and very courageous to produce & act in back then. Excellent movie!
+Ramin Rasouli If you use Firefox, you have to get the TH-cam Downloader Add-on which will allowed you to download the files. Can't speak for other browsers.
It took me over half my life to understand this film. When l realized the subject l held on to my belief that British movies were ALWAYS ahead of their time. Of Human Bondage, the L Shaped room, a Taste of Honey, are just the tip of the iceberg examples.
INCREDIBLE scene with the three older men, when Bogarde visits them and they discuss the life of 'inverts' (hate that word). Their views on the law, and nature, and love..really pretty amazing when you consider this was 1961??
The BBC certainly made it recently in their little propaganda film for their "50 Years of Fairies" season. You know - that nice pair of 62-year-old straight people holding hands at the bus stop until the police, including an obligatory token black, nicked them for being in "love". Just like Joe Orton and the midget all those years ago in the bad old days.
You've never watched TOWIE or Love Island, Khayyam? Anonymous sex is sexuality independent - in fact boozed-up birds & blokes on a Saturday evening indulge more in casual bunk-ups than gay people - watch the tv documentaries!. But, being a homophobic bigot, you'd not take that into account, would you?
I haven't owned a TV for over 10 years, Les. From the little bits of such things I've glimpsed round other people's houses, essentially these heterosexuals have adopted homosexual patterns of behaviour. Still, given the falsity and narcissism of the kind of people who elect to appear on so-called "reality" television, I doubt that the programmes in which they appear can be taken as compelling data in some kind of sociological survey. By the way, I'm never very impressed by prejudicial, ideologically-loaded neologisms like "homophobic", which beg the question (in the older, semi-technical sense of that now generally misused expression). They are employed by people who mistakenly think that pronouncing anathemas is the same thing as offering arguments.
I just happened upon this movie today. Didn't want to read the preface or commentaries so I, as usual, can guess what the context is about and where it would lead. Outstanding screenwriting with twisting and escalating content shining a light on the cost of those who lived in fear but held their ground in hopes that such steps would one day lead towards liberty.
Judge not less he be judge. I love Dirk Bogarde with compassion as an actor and human been. As he was a gay man in real life. It took great courage to do the right thing no matter what it may cost. I came across this movie two months ago and have watched it about four times now can't look away, let this be a lesson to all blackmailer, and would be blackmailer that there are those who will do the right no matter what the cost . Because you all know Blackmailers are cowards. Great acting by Mr Dirk Bogarde I love old movies.
i feel bad for Jack in the beginning of this movie. A lot of 20 somethings today don't realize how difficult it was in the 1960s. Even in the 90s and 80s!
@@mattismylove2973 How is it difficult now? Maybe I'm at a disadvantage living in London and I understand how in less cosmopolitan places, small mindedness is more common but, outside of certain minority communities, homosexuality is almost compulsory here. Haha.
I would not trade my gay friends - male or female for anything on Earth. They have been steadfast by me in times of trouble, generous, incredible drinking buds back in the days when we could all still knock 'em back,caring, roaringly funny, the best. I went to the wedding of two of my faves. Wouldn't have traded THAT moment with Larry and Bruce for anything either!! Yes, times have changed. Thank God..
@@thomasscottmilburn7985 Of course there has always been rubbish films from any era and the 60's were no exception. I think however that so-called mainstream movies today are generally poorly scripted (if you can call it a script in some cases) and acted with totally unconvincing characters. Of course there are notable exceptions but these are mainly less publicised and not big box office. The characters in Victim for instance are totally believable and natural.
@@paullewis2413 The music the real stars, the acting, authenticity and drama is the sixties written all over. Nothing compares to that era and cinema was sexy but clean and the people were real too, not plastic, pumped up and psychotic drama queens.
@@thomasscottmilburn7985 rubbish, we didn't need stereo, digital enhancement, plastic surgery, widescreen or liposuction in those days. You are way out of line.
Dirk Bogarde - who was seem by some as an irritant because he was so private (but why not? He didn't want the gossip press knowing about ANY part of his life let alone his main bloke) was absolutely fearless in choice of roles - and ahead of the pompous posturing of 'New Queer Cinema' of today by decades, working with several of the great homo auteurs of the time: Losey, Visconti, Fassbinder to name a few...as a young serviceman he had been one of the first to enter the gates of Bergen Belsen in '45...what, after all, then, was there to fear? The film is brilliantly set up in its opening moments by playing on the paranoia of the time: the two men (who are presented as regular Joes and not flaming stereotypes) are portrayed as if they are sleeper agents for the Soviets...
RIP Sylvia Syms who played Laura so passionately and strong and convincingly. When Dirk Bogarde won his Bafta lifetime award he said several actresses declined to be in Victim because they disapproved of the films theme or content. But Sylvia came onboard very late without any conditions and jumped right I and for that Dirk and Director Basil Dearden were incredibly grateful. The film wouldn’t have worked without her performance!!!
the lead role was turned down before Dirk took it
@@patthewoodboyYes Dirk said it was offered to a more famous actor who turned the role down because he thought it “would cost him a chance at a knighthood if he took the role”. Basil Dearden sent the script to Dirk on Christmas Eve 1960 while Dirks father,and Tony Forwood and French actress Capucine were decorating the tree. Capucine encouraged Dirk to make the film.
I saw this maybe 25 years ago, never knew the name of it. Been trying to find it. I remember the compassion between the husband and wife, and I’m very happy to be able to finally see it again.
@@patthewoodboy I agree entirely. Syms gave an awesome performance and was intelligent and progressive as she was beautiful
The courage it took for dirk to make this film in1961 fourteen years into his film career is amazing at the apex of his popularity dirk put his career and future on the line by making victim. In a 1971 interview with Barry Norman dirk said victim was a very brave and courageous film a film basil Dearden has never received proper credit or recognition for Sylvia Syms is awesome she is so heartbreakingly beautiful and an excellent actress a terribly underrated actress I’ve heard that about twenty other actresses passed on victim because according to dirk they didn’t like the content but Sylvia came aboard without any preconditions
Rubbish it came natural mate.
Perhaps he cared sufficiently to take the risk.
@@steffanhoffmann Well, if so, would you have been the lawyer or the blackmailer 'mate'?
Those actresses were afraid being in "Victim" would mean no more parts. To deal with bisexuality in 1961 in a movie was extraordinary.
@@steffanhoffmann Well Glynis Johns Welsh Actress/ singer just passed away age 100. Her Husband Tony Forwood was Dirks agent/ Manager and from 1948-89 Dirks partner as he left Glynis for Dirk. You might want to watch “The Private life of Dirk Bogarde part 2 deals with why Dirk chose to do Victim and features Sylvia Syms watching herself on film 40 years earlier. Also features Gareth Forwood Glynis and Tony’s son.
I watched this a long time ago, and found it just as gripping second time round. It gives me the creeps to be reminded of what life in a so-called civilized country was like for gay men back then. Even after partial decriminalisation in 1967 there was a lot of discrimination and prejudice for many years. An outstanding film.
Thank you. "Victim" is one of those movies one hears about but never gets to see. You have provided a great service to those of us who like and need to see our history. That's an amazing film and deserves the praise I've read about. It also deserves to be seen. Thank you again for making that possible.
Thank you for your kind words. I had heard about this movie and then saw it- it affected me greatly- and felt it needed to be available.
MsSoundguy
MsSoundguy NJ
Brilliant film
I just watched it during LGBT History Month. Such a dramatic film. Sinister music. Thought the blind guy was up to no good. Great twist in the end. A dark patch on British social history.
Dirk was brave enough to live the life he was comfortable living 😢
Rubbish. He posed with females. He never revealed he was a....
And for which no one has the right to judge him !!
@@donsarde However under a democratic system; everyone has the right to an opinion.
No need to use these 👉!!!!👈 considered to be the way of rude people.
Two nations do it the most, this 👉!!!!!👈 Russia and France.
The former, because the legacy of the communist ideology, where they thought they were the greatest; but in reality invented little.
(Where homosexuality is illegal by the way).
The latter because it seems, they like to stress the meaning of something.
Both nations destroyed aristocrats; in a bloody debauched way.
Nothing to boast about.
I agree it's his life, if he wanted to make things public than that's his choice ,i personally don't care ,if he liked men or women ,I like his film and his books !!!!!🤗🇬🇧
@@mariaevans5793 Ignoramus seemingly, liking your own posting.
Britannica Dictionary definition of IGNORAMUS: A person who does not know much.
What is a sentence of ignoramus?
a person who knows nothing: "I'm a complete ignoramus where asterisks are concerned"
Proof once again that good writing and strong acting will carry the day. Thanks for posting.
It was very brave of Dirk Bogarde to do this movie...especially as he was gay himself.
But he never came out though. He always denied he was gay even when it was legal.
He came out subtly but clearly by his movie choices - Servant, Death in Venice, cinema absolute classics. Great actor and person.
@@monikaszymanowska5142 He came from a generation that couldn't admit it openly because it was illegal. He was also a private person. You are certainly right about his films. I love his acting. He was a great character actor and one of the best Britain has ever produced. My earliest recollection of him is the film 'Our mothers' house'. It's a classic among many.
@@rexterrocks Nice to meet a co-fan:-) I would never say he was a character actor, for me he was always a lead. First seen in Spanish Gardener. The range of titles and directors in his CV is awesome, with Night Porter, Accident and La caduta degli dei among many - all of them kinky and frightening. I can't imagine how hard and dark his personal life was...
funny you say that.As I was watching, I thought he naturally looked and acted gay.
Thank you Mark. A very brave and important (as well as excellent in every cinematic sense) British movie. It's timing at the beginning of the Sixties , was relevant. A sign that attitudes and challenges were at last beginning to be addressed in the main stream. Kudos to all involved for putting it all on the line.
As much as one might think that we've come a long way from such victimization, sadly blackmail is still perpetrated in many cultures, where being gay is still viewed as a mark of shame. Just recently, I received a frantic phone call from a Peruvian friend, who said he was being extorted for a considerable amount of money. If not paid, his mother would be told that he was gay. Despite seeking advice from me, the fear in his voice was overwhelming, indicating that no matter what I said, he would pay. No doubt, he was his own victim, but a target nonetheless. Thank you for posting this exceptional film, and may it serve as a reminder to never be ashamed of who we are.
And if someone is a paedophile, or a thief, or someone who tortures, or someone who recklessly spreads disease to other people, you don’t think they should be ashamed of who they are?
@mothsmummy3075, That’s seriously a pathetic statement and has nothing to do with what was said.
@@Woodman-Spare-that-tree If someone does ANY of the qualities you named, that someone should not only be ashamed; that person should be put in prison. But what have those qualities got to do with being gay?
what do gay guys do to each other sexually. I never have understood this being a straight guy. will someone please explain it to me. thank you kindly
@@Woodman-Spare-that-treeBeing gay IS NOT a crime!
The pub scenes from 4:50 were filmed in a real pub, the Salisbury (St Martin's Lane, London) which was a gay pub for most of the 20th century. Fortunately, by the 1980s, we were living in more enlightened times than pre-1967 (when homosexual acts were still illegal in England). It was at the Salisbury that, at the age of 23 in 1981, I met the love of my life. We celebrate 40 years together next year.
Congratulations and love to you both 💋
@@MsVorpalBlade How lovely of you to say that. Thank you! 😊
So you honestly believe these are "more enlightened" times today... with blasphemous "ceremonies" being displayed in public... in front of innocent children, at the Paris Olympics, on Joe Biden's White House lawn... and through "woke" advertising media?
#JesusIsKing
A thousand thanks to you, MarkSentMe, for uploading the copy of this film. What an utterly ground-breaking piece of cinema!! I am so excited to have found this by chance tonight, and am deeply impacted by the bravery of all who participated in making this film. I feel a deep sense of gratitude to all of them, and not least due to showing the protagonist, barrister Farr, as the most coherent and upstanding of all the characters. Amazing when one thinks of the epoch in which this film was produced!
Given that the epoch was the holocene then and now the anthropocene, somewhat ironically.
Ditto!
A very brave film. Way ahead of its time. Well acted and filmed too. An outstanding piece of British film making in every way.
He was guy in real life. Suffered badly at the time. I agree, great film.
@@fionastevenson6019 gay not guy, cheers
@@stuartlawsonbeattie6200
Think he's well aware of that.
Letter errors are quite easily made when typing
Unbelievable for its time. Pray we don't go back to them.
@@anotherpet2 I see very little difference, there is still a very high level of homophobia in the UK and it's still illegal in more than 70' countries ! There has been progress but it's only really the law that has changed, not personal attitudes ! There is acceptance but I think a majority of it is actually tolerated cos now the law will can work against discrimination but there is also homophobia in the police , the Army and in sport, you only need to look at the statistics to see the reality of it, the LGBT community seriously need to wake up to remain safe. In some , if not most, it is still much safer the stay in the closet and remain private as it has nobodies business what they get up to behind closed doors. They still there is still a long way to go, yes, but it's so much longer than they think !! Homophobic attacks has increased in the last five years.
I love Dirk Bogarde for having been brave enough as a person, and as an actor, to take roles that challenged close-minded and demeaning social restrictions. Thanks for posting this -- a great drama and a great social document.
The *restrictions * seem less social than legal J.J, because that appears to be the precise distinction which the character of Mr Farr appears at great pains to highlight.
+Marko Antonio I agree w you, but I'd rather not. Gay bashing & all that is strictly US ground.
I see, mckavitt, I and others imagined it in the UK, then?
Great film great actor
@@lesreed9269 Take a closer look at the ratio. You're like a Christian trying to defend a bronzed age book.
THANK YOU! I've heard about this movie for years. What's surprising is not only the completely sympathetic tone - the police inspector's ripostes to the detective about how "if all aberrant behavior were illegal," the police would have too much to do - but the excellent plot line.
Even if you're not interested in the gay angle, it's worth seeing for the whodunit aspects. This was a period when British cinema was carving out a niche as real lives brutally honest and intelligent, and working-class stars like Alan Bates, Michael Caine and Julie Christie were breaking through the highbrow ceiling imposed on British actors.
I like what you said Steve, but this is just great drama and this was an icoic time for social history and movement.
This should be watched as purely great English/British cinematic brilliance.
THere are no digital effects and the music and drama is real, not false and the humour and dialogue is typically reserved, sadly an issue for North Americasns who want it loud brash and fleshy in your face.
I personally accept the socail changes but would wish to return to those times as people had manners.
Nowadays everyone assumes they have a right to speak but sadly the message is alwats interjoined with foul, abusive and impersonal judgement.
We really have not moved forwards in realistic terms, but well done, I agree with your sense of respect too.
Hollywood is lost and great studios like Pinewood, Elstree and others are gone wth the dust of the real silver screen, sad.
There also was no other like Silvia Sims, what apowerful and evocative woman and great beautiful talented actress, bless them all. Cheers.
A complex script superbly acted and directed.
how could the police on the motorbike know who it was going to the cafe?
Superbly made film with exquisite nuances. The script could have fallen over into cliches, but is an example of strong and brave writing. Wow. To see such moral strength from all involved tells you how strong were the shoulders that today's freedom stands on. Thanks for the opportunity.
When I was young I used to watch all his films. He was so handsome and proper! God bless him for his courage. 🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
While looking at the film lineup for the upcoming 2021 Turner Classic Film Festival, May 6-9, I saw the film 'Victim' among those to be shown. Not being familiar with the film, I thought it was Film Noir. Then I read the description of the film and am watching it now. What a powerful, brave film for 1961. Thank you for posting this important work of cinema.
I've never heard of this film until seeing it mentioned in a Dirk Bogarde interview elsewhere on TH-cam. Thank you for posting it! I'm shocked at how openly the subject matter was addressed, and happy to see homosexuality described in non-hysterical terms.
Skip E. Lowe interview?
It still creeps me out.
Why because it's unnatural.
@@m1lst3r89 Why? You sound foolish?? What is surprising is you are typing this in the 21st century. SMDH
@@steffanhoffmann Unnatural how? You do realize we are in the 21st century, right? You do know many don't care about procreation? You know that love is *NOT* defined by society anymore. You also know that WHO you love is also *NOT* defined by society anymore. Do you know how many people are on the DL because they want to please society? Times have changed, and I feel sorry for those who can't keep up - you will just be miserable; you are not hurting those living and enjoying their best life.
Excellent film. My Thanks are due to the person who posted this onto TH-cam.
This is the film that gave Dirk Bogarde his ticket to a wider range of roles.
Mr. Bogarde was itching to get into arthouse pictures and, European cinema.
'Victim' shone the light on him. 'The Servant' simply cemented his new reputation. When 'Victim' was first released, people were queueing round the block to get into cinemas to see it. Well, they were in London at any rate.
'Victim' also helped to get the archaic law against homosexuality repealed, in England and Wales. I'm unsure about Scotland as they have an entirely different legal system. So, cheers all round then.
Dirk and Sylvia were excellent.. I thought so in 1961 , and STILL DO !
Dirk himself was gay. I wonder how he felt when playing this part as he himself had kept it a secret. But i am sure many knew in the acting circles.
Dirk is a wonderful actor!!
By 1960/61 Bogarde (1921 - 1999) was the most popular British actor having achieved fame in the comedy Doctor series and then graduated to having the image of a suave leading man and war action hero. The film's makers had approached several actors including James Mason and Jack Hawkins who turned the role down - they had similar trouble finding an actress to play the loyal wife until Sylvia Sims agreed. Bogarde himself wrote the scene where his character confesses to his wife that he is gay and continues to have an attraction for men despite previous denials. Both Bogarde and Sims were putting their careers at risk because of the bigotry and bias in society then. Bogarde who himself was gay aid in 1988 that this role was "The wisest decision I ever made in my cinematic career." It was a trailblazing and important film - the first ever to include the word "homosexual" and, while fairly popular, was not a huge box office hit.
The movie “Glen or Glenda” in 1953 used the word “homosexual”
Bogarde wasn't acting was he?
@@steffanhoffmannoh just zip it bigot, love is love, accept it and piss off.
A remarkably courageous (and landmark) film for 1961. Both Dirk Bogarde and Sylvia Syms are to be congratulated for their unnerving tanacity in taking on these (at the time) highly controversial roles.
Love the street scenes shops, Wolseley police cars and cigarettes! Thank you for uploading.
A very brave film, very brave performance by Mr. Bogarde - as well as all parties involved in making of this film.
I always try to watch this at least once every couple of years. It's important to not forget.
Way ahead of its time. Brilliantly produced.
It is way ahead of films Today, pure class.
This is a seminal movie with wonderful performances especially from Dirk Bogarde. It was a brave movie.
I am so impressed. Technically the film is superb, Dick Bogart's acting is astonishing... as for the story, a beautiful lesson of courage and integrity, it conveys strength and hope for human beings.
Yea for Mary's 😂
@@steffanhoffmannpiss off bigot
Very brave content for the times, kudos to the actors for accepting the roles considering>
I'm amazed that this was made in 1961.
The movie has become an icon in the homosexual community and was a brave movie when first released. But putting aside all the talk of "inverts", and human behaviour that was at that time a criminal offence, the film works because it is a genuinely good suspense drama, with fear as its catalyst, beautifully acted, a few red herrings, some genuine human emotions on show and while Bogarde and Sylvia Sims are excellent as the leads, I think some of the smaller character players truly shine, for example, Charles Lloyd Pack, superb as a fussy little man in 100s of 1950s and 1960s movies, here deeply moving as the nervous old hairdresser. In real life Pack was the father of Roger Lloyd Pack, much loved British comedy actor in "Only Fools And Horses" etc.
Thank you William well said.
Great movies amke great heroes and heroines but it is is the whole cast and the writing and production, cheers and thanks for the knowledgeable input too, God bless them all and Trigger, Dave.
Dennis Price was gay and an alcoholic.
@@None-zc5vg and your point is?
a sharp-eyed policeman on his motobike,, and where was he going to wire the 20 pound. his friend, i mean. otherwise a good film. motorbike, sorry!!
@@michaelangood YES I THOUGHT ABOUT THE DESTINATION OF THE £20 AND WHY WAS AN ANONYMOUS YOUNG CHAP GOING INTO A LORRY CAFE known to be wanted MINOR POINTS IN PRODUCTION BUT PIVOTAL TO THE STORY .
REMARKABLE FILM! So progressive for 1961. Thanks for the upload!
+MARCUS KNIGHT Not progressive, advanced. Check out another Basil Dearden film Sapphire made around the same time.
Have seen this film on TV many years ago. Excellent film. Thank God I'm gay in the 21st Century. To be gay in the 40s, 50s and 60s must have been so sad. Thanks for downloading.
thank i'm heterosexual and very glad to be so . women are lovely. very sad you will never know. anyway, best wishes
@@michaelangooddon’t you have anything better to do you stupid bigot.
A Great Movie and All around mighty Acting ..Thanks for posting .
KILLER MOVIE!! thank you for uploading. Most definitely ahead of its time.
Good to see this excellent film again. Very many thanks for sharing this and thanks to all who took part in the making of the film.
A very great film! Shows society at it's lowest, ugliest and most destructive. Everyone should be forced to walk other's shoes. I'm really in awe of Dirk Bogarde, a very advanced and great man.
A CLASSIC! Still packs a punch.
Thank you for posting this movie, I’ve seen it before, but always enjoy seeing Dirk again. It really took England a long time about changing the law on this topic. A shame!
What a brilliant film .
Interesting. As someone who lived through the fifties and sixties as a gay man, I don't think I ever felt fearful of being 'outed'. Of course some very famous people were and indeed went to prison but we lived our lives, perhaps dangerously, in pubs, clubs, cottages without a qualm. A groundbreaking film and brave of Bogarde to play the part under the circumstances. How much has changed and yet there are still those who dare not come out.
Michael Gouda ..Very distressing times for gay people...Reputations and careers could be ruined, just by someone hinting that such and such a person might not be kosher. Blackmailing was rife in the community, especially against men who preferred the company of young lads.
Well, I only liked guys of roughly my own age. But that was such an age ago it seems like a different world. I wrote a short story about my life then. It was called 'Having Fun'. I'm not sure if you can get it but you can try on tanyard.plus.com
Sorry, that should be tanyardbank.plus.com
Perhaps they do not wish 'to come out' as the contemporary effeminate and insulting terminology has it.
Homosexuals are stuck with being homosexual. Not all of them wish to be 'gay'. For many people, and living neither 'in' nor 'out' works. The separatist philosophy of the 'gay' movement and the ghettoised 'gay' lifestyle is unattractive to many.
Being 'out' can be just as unhappy as being 'in the closet'. There is more than one way of living your life.
Good luck to homosexuals who have to adjust as best they can to a condition they did not choose and cannot change! I hope they find some happiness in life, whichever path they choose.
As a result of ongoing research, one day homosexuals may be able to become heterosexual and then sexuality will be a choice. What a happy day that will be! May it come soon!
@@michaelgouda305 you should went straight like every man!
I'm so glad the law was changed. A brilliant and brave film . Brave of Dirk Bogarde , and a brilliant actor . A beautiful man .
i agree. i've read some of his books.i have never met my girlfriends in toilets.a homosexual habit, which i find rather sordid.. cast a dark shadow was another of dirk's films
I’m shocked this movie was even made, wish more people knew about
One of the actors Dennis Price was blackmailed all of his acting career because of his sexuality which makes his appearance in this film doubly impressive.
Such a sad life. He tried to commit suicide several times and was heartbroken when he lost access to his children. Apparently he was a lovely man whose memorial (referencing his most famous role) reads "Kind hearts are worth more than coronets."
@jack freeman: that remark seems flawed because the Sexual Offences Act (which decriminalized homosexuality) was given the Royal Assent in 1967, whereas the career of the actor to which you allude extended beyond that. Moreover, not-with-standing his sexuality, is there any evidence that he was actually blackmailed because of it?
@@elrjames7799 you forget Price was alive and an actor long before 1967.
@@Omnicient. OK: thanks for the correction.
@@mazzymuso He only attempted suicide once and after his divorce he still saw his children regularly as well as remaining friends with his ex wife.
Fabulous statement on the struggles of the gay community. The gay individual should have all the rights & respect as a heterosexual.
Think of the misery the prejudice against homosexuals caused over the years. I can't see why consenting adults can't live as they wish.
great story,great acting,great film.
blackmailer would have more copies. pointless paying the money
The scene where he confesses the business about the boy to his wife is absolutely off the scale.
Dirk Bogarde wrote that scene!
I have never seen this film before and it was a really outstanding one.
After the Montague Case of 1954 and the resulting books by Peter Wildeblood there was genuine sympathy from many heterosexuals for the impossible situation gay men faced legally and socially. This film shows that Britain was ready to change.
They don't make 'em like _this_ anymore.
These days, the lips move in time with the dialogue XD
I’ve known of this movie for years. This the first time that I’ve seen it. It’s an outstanding piece of film making of a period in the not too distant past. Thankfully things have changed for the better in a lot of countries. Unfortunately there are still some nations where this is still possible.
Thumbs Up and Subscribed. THANK YOU for posting this movie. This film impacted British law regarding blackmail, and led to the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1967. Dirk Bogarde was the main reason this film received critical attention and audience attendance.
Amazing results for such a touchy subject. A very good film.
yes great film but too late for Alan Turing and many others.
But, at the time it was made, it is credited for creating some of the change in beliefs that brought about the end of the Sexual Offences Act in 1967. It's a brave film. Like The Imitation Game, its importance cannot be denied.
This film is considered instrumental in changing British attitudes about homosexuality that led to the repeal of its criminalization in 1967.
More likely to be a kind of predictive programming, given that the Wolfenden Report had already appeared in 1957. The British Establishment is a lumbering but inexorable juggernaut.
"predictive programming" Are you trying to say "Self-fulfilling prophecy"? Why is that "more likely" than the perfectly reasonable "instrumental" of the original post? The Wolfenden Report was instrumental too, at the time there was a sea-change in attitude. The change was not necessarily "pro-gay", so much as a realisation that society itself was disadvantaged by institutionalised persecution and prejudice. Legalisation was undertaken grudgingly by the powers that be, and nobody was under any misapprehension that the British Establishment had suddenly gone all soft and forgiving.
No, Johnny. If I'd meant to say that I would have just said it, wouldn't I? Not the same thing at all. Law of identity or something like that, I think.
REALLY Steve, this is your conclusion from this movie ? You must be in the shallow in of the pool.
A powerful and moving film, portraying the devastating situation of so many gay men in the 60's, suffering from blackmail and closeted as a result of outdated Victorian norms & laws. DB - as usual was brilliant in his role as the Barrister. Was awesome seeing London in the early 60's.
I remember watching this film many years ago and still get so angry, thinking about what so many men went through. This film was so well done and I thank you for showing it.
this film was beyond brave at the time
Thank you! Dirk Bogarde was a fine actor. I love nostalgia, it's great to see men being gentlemen and women being ladies.
Deightfully put dear Anna, bless you.
i agree, you know who you are talking to. in the 60's a girl was a girl, no plastic boobs or lips. i'm 81
were, sorry spanish wine. cheers
The relationship between Mel and Lara reminds me of the Johnny Cash song “Because you’re mine, I walk the line.”
this is one of my favourite films ever god bless dirk for being so brave in those times
This film seems less about 'gay rights', than exposing the brutal injustice to which many gentle and harmless people were subjected. Mr Farr (by virtue of his social standing) could've escaped from all but marital opprobrium for his indiscretion, but chose instead to 'stand up' for the victims of common bigotry and legal prejudice, and so bring the real criminals to justice. The respective focus of the inspector and his sergeant are well expressed.
No, this is specifically a movie about the injustice suffered by gay people -- who were THROWN IN JAIL SIMPLY FOR BEING WHO THEY WERE -- not one about injustice in general. Go back to the part where Farr meets with the three men and listen to the dialogue; it is an almost-slightly-clumsy -- but utterly necessary -- push for those ridiculous laws to be overturned, laws that were insane and inhumane and utterly opposed to democratic ideals. ....... Also, why the quote marks around _gay rights_? Quote marks, when used around material that isn't being quoted, are used to denote smarminess, snottiness, flippancy; if that's not your intention, then perhaps avoid quote marks in future. Cheers.
Quote marks are double parentheses J.J, single ones are merely emphatic of colloquial or idiomatic expression . I already stated 'up front' that the film exposed "the brutal injustice to which many gentle and harmless people were subjected". The implication of your objection, consequently, can only be that 'gay rights' are more important to you than the justice for which Mr Farr obviously fought and risked much.
+J J: Hmm: I did 'go back to that part', and you have a very good point.
@@elrjames7799
Thats because he only cares about himself and the LBGTQ community.
Thats today. Gay ppl
are hetrophobic!
Dirk Bogarde one of my favorite actors EVER!! This character part had to be very difficult for him during this time knowing that he was playing character.
Seems almost provincial. It's not long ago that homosexuality was a crime, in GB.
Blackmail is a most evil crime. Living in fear, and never knowing where it ends.
Adore Dirk Bogarde. Courageous actor.
Amazing movie. Always a Dirk Borgart fan sad that he lived in such a time
aww poor lil' dirkie haha had to live in "such a time."
sure beats the time we are in ! by a lot ! .i got to live thru the 50's &60's and those
yrs. were very special.....50's no ->drugs, messcons, blacks,queers, cussing , divorce, racist(
all the same race),some fist fights, polite, shirts tucked in for boys, no safety concern,
no child sex(heard about).no door locking, windows open at nite(miss that so much),
no seat belts, && etc.etc. 2 parents for every kid, only heard the word divorce in my
senior yr. we said pg-not pregnant, & wore maternity tops-nothing tight. ha ha
u missed out!!
Superb film that hits all the right cords. Excellent cast, not to mention Dirk Bogarde, a hot legend.
Dirk Bogarde deserved the Best Actor Academy Award for his brilliant performance in this film.
A young Captain Peacock was the barber's assistant. I wonder if young Mr. Grace knows he's moonlighting.
Yep good ol' Frank Thornton (Captain Peacock)
@@chrismei8580 thanks, Chris, I couldn't remember Captain Peacocks name, bless you, cheers
Oh that WAS him, then! Talk about a blink-and-you'll-miss-it bit! Went by so fast I wasn't sure.
Great movie The Late MrBogarde was such an amazing actor I wish his life has been easier. But along with Talent God gave him a lot of coverage. And this movie shows how much courage it took to be who you're meant to be
Great story, great acting, great movie. Highly recommended.
What's great about this film, is that Dirk Bogarde played the role despite the fact he himself was homosexual; the saddening truth being that he (amongst many others I'm sure) were afraid of being judged by a society unwilling to accept.
Elr James I was 20 in 1961 when this film was made. I can remember people talking about the Queer film. Although the word Gay was around - I don't remember it used that often, even in Homi circles. The Sexual Offences Act 1967 was an Act of Parliament in the United Kingdom (citation 1967 c. 60). That is six years after this film was made. It decriminalised homosexual acts in private between two men, both of whom had to have attained the age of 21. The Act applied only to England and Wales and did not cover the Merchant Navy or the Armed Forces. Homosexuality was decriminalised in Scotland by the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980 and in Northern Ireland by the Homosexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 1982.
An Act may be passed by the State but social understanding and tolerance takes a lot longer.
The Stonewall riots were a series of spontaneous, violent demonstrations by members of the LGBT community against a police raid that took place in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn, located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.
Gay Activists were on the march!!!!!!!
You can't force anyone to like or tolerate you! Although laws exist now for tolerance and equality people still express themselves in in angry and threatening ways. The Jews, the blacks understand this and now moderate Muslims are all tarred with the same brush! I am 73 so brash activism is not for me but hopefully I am able to explain things to willing listeners! Hope you are enjoying your life!
They weren't just afraid of being judged by society, they were afraid of being arrested, prosecuted, convicted and sent to prison! And of course their trials would be reported in the newspapers, they would lose their jobs and become unemployable, and they would be rejected by their families and many of their friends. Faced with all of that, some would take their own lives. The law and society have come a long way since those days.
Well don't you think "...being arrested, prosecuted, convicted and sent to prison! And of course their trials would be reported in the newspapers, they would lose their jobs and become unemployable, and they would be rejected by their families and many of their friends" constitutes 'society'?
My point is that gay people at that time had much worse done to them than simply "being judged".
I wept while watching this. Superb in every aspect. And so brave at the time.
Excellent move. British cinema at its finest. Thanks for uploading!
Dirk Bogarde being gay in real life this movie must've touched close to home for him.
"Victim" (1961) is dated now, but this does not reduce either its importance, or Dirk Bogarde's bravery for appearing in it.
This was the first English language, commercial, film to raise the subject of the need for legal reform regarding homosexuality. Indeed, it was the first such film in which the word 'homosexual' was used
The film could not have been made without Bogarde's name above the title and his box office clout from his Rank matineee idol days (a status he risked simply by appearing in this film).
Bogarde is especially convincing in the role of a married barrister with a romantic friendship with a younger man. This is not surprising. He wrote much of his own dialogue in key scenes with his wife (Sylvia Sims).
This was superb, riveting & disgusting at the same time. Thank you for putting this on your channel. The heartache so many people had to endure back in the day & who paved the way for the young people of today. Sadly some are still doing this to innocent people today. This was ahead of it's time in 1961and very courageous to produce & act in back then. Excellent movie!
"You need me, but you don't want me!"
This movie is about a homosexual, playing a homosexual, pretending he's not a homosexual, while he's actually a homosexual. Hahaha
Make sure that if you want this movie- download it. So far It's been under the radar and not removed, but you never know.
Thank you, Captain Peacock!
Dear Marksentme how do I download this movie? Thanks.
+Ramin Rasouli
If you use Firefox, you have to get the TH-cam Downloader Add-on which will allowed you to download the files. Can't speak for other browsers.
go to google ,search and find YTD-TH-cam downloader, then use it, it also ,if d/loading music, will convert it to MP3-SAFE AND EASY
I KNOW ,SEEMS LIKE IT,S BEEN YEARS FOR THIS, SO TA CHUM, V MUCH
It took me over half my life to understand this film. When l realized the subject l held on to my belief that British movies were ALWAYS ahead of their time. Of Human Bondage, the L Shaped room, a Taste of Honey, are just the tip of the iceberg examples.
And "Sapphire".
@@richardbailey202 About ten years ago I discovered. Very sad, moving drama and British made.. Thanks
One of my favorite films
INCREDIBLE scene with the three older men, when Bogarde visits them and they discuss the life of 'inverts' (hate that word). Their views on the law, and nature, and love..really pretty amazing when you consider this was 1961??
If you consider anonymous sex with strangers in public lavatories to be a variety of love.
Why do you suppose that anyone here, or in the film, makes such an assumption - apart from yourself?
The BBC certainly made it recently in their little propaganda film for their "50 Years of Fairies" season. You know - that nice pair of 62-year-old straight people holding hands at the bus stop until the police, including an obligatory token black, nicked them for being in "love". Just like Joe Orton and the midget all those years ago in the bad old days.
You've never watched TOWIE or Love Island, Khayyam? Anonymous sex is sexuality independent - in fact boozed-up birds & blokes on a Saturday evening indulge more in casual bunk-ups than gay people - watch the tv documentaries!. But, being a homophobic bigot, you'd not take that into account, would you?
I haven't owned a TV for over 10 years, Les. From the little bits of such things I've glimpsed round other people's houses, essentially these heterosexuals have adopted homosexual patterns of behaviour. Still, given the falsity and narcissism of the kind of people who elect to appear on so-called "reality" television, I doubt that the programmes in which they appear can be taken as compelling data in some kind of sociological survey.
By the way, I'm never very impressed by prejudicial, ideologically-loaded neologisms like "homophobic", which beg the question (in the older, semi-technical sense of that now generally misused expression). They are employed by people who mistakenly think that pronouncing anathemas is the same thing as offering arguments.
Excellent movie regardless of period in time, but especially in 1960s.
I just happened upon this movie today. Didn't want to read the preface or commentaries so I, as usual, can guess what the context is about and where it would lead. Outstanding screenwriting with twisting and escalating content shining a light on the cost of those who lived in fear but held their ground in hopes that such steps would one day lead towards liberty.
Great film ..I have the original cinema poster.. Derren Nesbit memorable sinister role..RIP SYLVIA SYMS JAN 2023
I'm recording this now from TCM but I stated a little late so I have missed the first 25 minutes. This dvd is 56.00 on amazon so Thanks!
Nigel Stock plays a salesman for "Cavendish Motors" in this and then Cavendish "the surveyor" in The Great Escape
Always liked Dirk Bogarde a lot! Poignant movie!
Thank you for posting, I enjoyed watching this very much, very sad!!!!
@1.15 you can see the blackmailer is gay himself from the naked male picture on the wall... that says everything
Thankyou, brilliant film, love,love ,love Dirk Bogarde
Judge not less he be judge. I love Dirk Bogarde with compassion as an actor and human been. As he was a gay man in real life. It took great courage to do the right thing no matter what it may cost. I came across this movie two months ago and have watched it about four times now can't look away, let this be a lesson to all blackmailer, and would be blackmailer that there are those who will do the right no matter what the cost . Because you all know Blackmailers are cowards. Great acting by Mr Dirk Bogarde I love old movies.
i feel bad for Jack in the beginning of this movie. A lot of 20 somethings today don't realize how difficult it was in the 1960s. Even in the 90s and 80s!
Even in the 2021!
@@mattismylove2973 How is it difficult now? Maybe I'm at a disadvantage living in London and I understand how in less cosmopolitan places, small mindedness is more common but, outside of certain minority communities, homosexuality is almost compulsory here. Haha.
Peter McEnery did a very fine job as boy Barrett on film Victim In fact quite an outstanding performance
I would not trade my gay friends - male or female for anything on Earth. They have been steadfast by me in times of trouble, generous, incredible drinking buds back in the days when we could all still knock 'em back,caring, roaringly funny, the best. I went to the wedding of two of my faves. Wouldn't have traded THAT moment with Larry and Bruce for anything either!! Yes, times have changed. Thank God..
Cynthia Hawkins Being called a gay friend is fucking annoying. I prefer the term friend.
+Cynthia Hawkins so glad you have good friends---Im blessed too. thanks for sharing.
+Cynthia Hawkins tell that to God who has condemned homosexuality.
tell him that on judgement day.
Ronald Watson God must be crazy then because he also invented homosexuality.
Classic movies are so much better than today's films which are filled with poorly written dialogue, and expletives.
@@thomasscottmilburn7985 Of course there has always been rubbish films from any era and the 60's were no exception. I think however that so-called mainstream movies today are generally poorly scripted (if you can call it a script in some cases) and acted with totally unconvincing characters. Of course there are notable exceptions but these are mainly less publicised and not big box office. The characters in Victim for instance are totally believable and natural.
@@paullewis2413 The music the real stars, the acting, authenticity and drama is the sixties written all over.
Nothing compares to that era and cinema was sexy but clean and the people were real too, not plastic, pumped up and psychotic drama queens.
@@thomasscottmilburn7985 rubbish, we didn't need stereo, digital enhancement, plastic surgery, widescreen or liposuction in those days.
You are way out of line.
Non-toxic representation of gay men? *In my 1960s???*
The real victim is the wife.
she would always have a life of uncertainty. no way to live
Screw you homophobe
Sylvia Syms took the part as she’d just worked with Sir John Gielgud who’d been prosecuted for importuning and felt morally obliged to do so.
@Cat Magic enticing men for sex - usually in public toilets ,parks at night and other such places
Good for her - ive always liked Sylvia Syms
Dirk Bogarde - who was seem by some as an irritant because he was so private (but why not? He didn't want the gossip press knowing about ANY part of his life let alone his main bloke) was absolutely fearless in choice of roles - and ahead of the pompous posturing of 'New Queer Cinema' of today by decades, working with several of the great homo auteurs of the time: Losey, Visconti, Fassbinder to name a few...as a young serviceman he had been one of the first to enter the gates of Bergen Belsen in '45...what, after all, then, was there to fear?
The film is brilliantly set up in its opening moments by playing on the paranoia of the time: the two men (who are presented as regular Joes and not flaming stereotypes) are portrayed as if they are sleeper agents for the Soviets...