'England Made Me' (1973) Movie of the Book by Graham Greene

'​England Made Me' is a 1973 British drama film directed by Peter Duffell, adapted from Graham Greene's 1935 novel of the same name. The film features Peter Finch as Erich Krogh, Michael York as Anthony Farrant, and Hildegarde Neil as Kate Farrant. Notably, the film shifts the novel's setting from Sweden to Nazi Germany, a change made to leverage more recognizable imagery and underscore the growing menace in Europe during that era. ​

Plot Summary: Set in the 1930s, the story follows Anthony Farrant, a naive Englishman who visits Germany after a business trip. There, he becomes entangled with Erich Krogh, a charismatic financier who has built his career on greed, corruption, and opportunism. Anthony's twin sister, Kate, is also involved with Krogh, adding complexity to their relationships. As Anthony is drawn deeper into Krogh's morally ambiguous world, he faces challenges that test his values and naivety. ​
Themes: The film explores themes of moral corruption, the loss of innocence, and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in the pursuit of wealth and power. By relocating the setting to Nazi Germany, the narrative also reflects the broader socio-political tensions of the time, highlighting the encroaching threat of totalitarianism.​

Critical Reception: Upon its release, England Made Me received mixed reviews. Some critics praised the performances, particularly Peter Finch's portrayal of Krogh. However, others found the film lacking in engagement, with one review describing it as a "rather dull drama" despite Finch's watchable performance. The film's art direction, led by Tony Woollard, garnered a BAFTA nomination, indicating recognition of its visual achievements. ​

Overall, England Made Me offers a cinematic exploration of Greene's themes, set against the backdrop of a Europe on the brink of profound change.