Broken Glass (1996)

Broken Glass Poster

An adaptation of Arthur Miller's play.

Overview
"Broken Glass" is a psychological mystery-drama movie launched in 1996. The movie was directed by David Thacker and is an adjustment of the play by Arthur Miller. The main theme of the film revolves around obsession, treated with a background of anti-semitism in the 1930s.

Plot
The story unfolds in Brooklyn, New York in 1938. Phillip Gellburg, a Jewish attorney and an incredibly dedicated employee, deals with his wife, Sylvia Gellburg, who is consumed with her Jewish identity. Sylvia is highly affected by the news relating to the Jewish persecution happening in Nazi Germany. One day, Sylvia mysteriously loses the ability to stroll, although she is perfectly physically healthy. This alarms Phillip who looks for the assistance of Dr. Harry Hyman to learn the cause of his spouse's sudden special needs.

Characters and Development
Phillip is revealed as a dedicated person who is so focused on his work that he frequently ignores his other half's psychological needs. Sylvia, a sensitive soul, is exceptionally affected by the increasing anti-Semitism, which manifests itself in the physical failure to move her legs. Dr. Harry Hyman is a kind-hearted medical professional, who not just helps Sylvia clinically however also becomes emotionally included with her. It is through their interactions that Sylvia begins to unfold her deep-set worries and fixations.

David Suchet plays Phillip Gellburg, Margot Leicester depicts Sylvia, and Henry Goodman personifies Dr. Harry Hyman in the film. The performances of all 3 stars admirably mirror the intensifying psychological tension.

Themes
The movie handles heavy styles such as anti-semitism, fascism, and mental health. Through Sylvia's character, the film represents how bigotry and intense hatred can seriously impact people who are far-off from the scene of the occasions physically. The film likewise subtly resolves the predicament of Jews living in a progressively hostile world. Miller not only explores the societal difficulties faced by Jews during that time but also looks into individual and marital concerns.

Conclusion
"Broken Glass", in essence, is a psychological research study of the human reaction to despiteful environments. Through Sylvia's paralysis, Miller metaphorically deals with the paralysis of society and people who are incapable of reacting to increasing fascism and anti-Semitic sentiments. The movie, while concentrating on a personal story, has an overwhelming message for all, highlighting the dangers of indifference and the requirement for uniformity in the face of misfortune. The open-ending in the film, with Sylvia's abrupt death and Phillip's emotional breakdown, leaves viewers with a sense of dread and extensive self-questioning. The efficiencies by the lead stars instill life into the narrative and effectively portray an awful story of physical and emotional paralysis, dominated by a sense of impending threat and extensive worry.

Top Cast

  • Mandy Patinkin (small)
    Mandy Patinkin
    Dr Henry Hyman
  • Henry Goodman (small)
    Henry Goodman
    Phillip Gellburg
  • Margot Leicester (small)
    Margot Leicester
    Sylvia Gellburg
  • Elizabeth McGovern (small)
    Elizabeth McGovern
    Margaret Hyman
  • Ed Bishop (small)
    Ed Bishop
    Stanton Case
  • Julia Swift
    Harriet
  • Nitzan Sharron (small)
    Nitzan Sharron
    David