21 Days Poster

21 Days 1940

★ 6.126 votes72 min📅 1940-01-07

"Excitingly Together!"

Set against the backdrop of 1930s London, *21 Days (1940)* is a gripping drama directed by Basil Dean, weaving a tale of love, guilt, and moral dilemma.

Director: Basil Dean

Cast

Vivien Leigh
Vivien Leigh
Wanda
Laurence Olivier
Laurence Olivier
Larry Durrant
Leslie Banks
Leslie Banks
Keith Durrant
Francis L. Sullivan
Francis L. Sullivan
Mander
David Horne
David Horne
Beavis
William Dewhurst
William Dewhurst
Lord Chief Justice
Frederick Lloyd
Frederick Lloyd
Swinton
Robert Newton
Robert Newton
Tolly
Esme Percy
Esme Percy
Henry Wallen
Elliott Mason
Frau Grunlich

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *21 Days* (1940) about?

*21 Days* follows Larry Darrent, who accidentally kills his lover's blackmailing husband, only to learn an innocent man has been arrested for the crime. With time running out, Larry and Wanda must decide whether to confess and save the wrongly condemned man or let the truth remain buried. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the moral cost of silence.

Who directed *21 Days*?

*21 Days* was directed by Basil Dean, a prolific filmmaker known for his work in British cinema during the 1930s and 1940s.

Who stars in *21 Days*?

The film stars Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier as the doomed lovers, alongside Leslie Banks, Francis L. Sullivan, and David Horne.

Is *21 Days* (1940) worth watching?

As a pre-war drama with strong performances and a compelling moral dilemma, *21 Days* holds up well for fans of classic cinema. While not as widely known as Leigh and Olivier's later collaborations, its tight plot and emotional depth make it a rewarding watch for those who appreciate vintage thrillers with a romantic edge.

How long is *21 Days*?

*21 Days* has a runtime of 72 minutes.

About 21 Days (1940) — A Race Against Time in a Classic Romantic Drama

Set against the backdrop of 1930s London, *21 Days (1940)* is a gripping drama directed by Basil Dean, weaving a tale of love, guilt, and moral dilemma. Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier deliver powerhouse performances as Wanda and Larry Darrent, a couple entangled in a web of blackmail after Larry accidentally kills Wanda's manipulative husband. As the clock ticks down, they're granted a mere three weeks to decide whether to stand by in silence or risk everything to save an innocent man from the gallows. The film masterfully balances romance with suspense, exploring themes of justice, sacrifice, and the weight of secrets in a society that demands accountability. With its taut pacing and emotional depth, *21 Days* offers a timeless critique of moral choices and their consequences.

A collaboration between two of British cinema's most iconic stars, this underrated gem blends romance with urgency. Basil Dean's direction infuses the narrative with a sense of impending doom, making every moment count as the protagonists race against time. The stark black-and-white cinematography and moody London streets add to the film's brooding atmosphere, creating a story that lingers long after the final scene.