The Edge of the World

A nice, naturalistic film about a small island community struggling to protect their traditional lifestyle against the encroachment of modernity. Seventy-five years later, the talk of things like over-fishing and rural depopulation still seems remarkably topical. Worth watching for the stunning location photography.

Viewed February 27, 2018. I guess this is the turning point in Michael Powell's career where he decided that every single shot in each of his films was going to be stunningly gorgeous. It pays off. One of his key themes - resistance to change, holding onto tradition - is played out solely through the images. It's a sensory experience. Pressburger isn't there yet, so the dialogue doesn't matter as much, and maybe that's why it's only 75 minutes. There aren't any speeches.

Not even photography of this level could save such a dated, sophomoric experience.

Otherworldly cinematography with a beautiful range of black and white tones.

Unfortunately, it's incredibly dated because it's a fantastic story with brilliant photography.

Such an interesting setting for a film that Powell seems to be torn between his drama (which itself is quite poignant) and the scenery. I don't think there's many real Scots in the film, so be prepared for some awful accents.

The story of a community that died. Powell & Pressburger's usual fine craftsmanship, great b&w cinematography, and Belle Chrystall is impossibly beautiful. This picture makes you want to see only black and white movies for at least a month

i've spent a lot of time in shetland over the years and can confirm it's exactly like this

Star Rating: ★★★★1/2

87.00

Fascinating early work by a personal favorite director, with some beautiful camera play and a fascinating, powerful narrative.

Melodrama that feels like a documentary with lots of scenic shots.

This early work from Michael Powell actually seems like something of a precursor to neorealism, and its authentic capture of niche agricultural life on an obscure island specifically resembles Stromboli. The acting is not very good, but what tremendous visual grace. The landscapes are divine.

A stunningly shot film from Michael Powell with impressive seaside images! The however story was terribly dull. Tries the capture the authenticity of life and hardship of life at the remote island, but comes across artificial and shallow in that respect. Still it's rather seducing. Best enjoyed by looking at it as a documentary.