Sidewalks of London (St. Martin's Lane) (1938) - Charles Laughton & Vivien Leigh in London Drama

On the bustling streets of London, a street performer discovers a talented young dancer and takes her under his wing, but their relationship faces the ultimate test when fame and success come knocking in this touching British drama.

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📖 STORY
Street performer Charles Staggs (Laughton) makes his living entertaining crowds on London's sidewalks. One day he meets young dancer Libby (Vivien Leigh), recognizing her raw talent and taking her under his wing. But when she becomes a variety show star, their paths begin to diverge as success, love, and pride collide on the city's busy sidewalks.

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⭐ HIGHLIGHTS
• Charles Laughton's vulnerable performance beneath his character's boisterous exterior
•Vivien Leigh's important role just before her breakthrough in "Gone with the Wind"
•Young Rex Harrison in one of his early screen appearances
•Memorable music by legendary harmonica player Larry Adler
•Authentic atmosphere of 1930s London street life

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🎬 PRODUCTION DETAILS
• Genre: Drama, Romance, Musical
•Director: Tim Whelan
•Runtime: 86 minutes
•Cast: Charles Laughton, Vivien Leigh, Rex Harrison, Larry Adler
•Country: United Kingdom

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🎪 BEHIND THE SCENES
• Film showcases Vivien Leigh's dramatic range before Hollywood stardom
•Charles Laughton delivered one of his most nuanced performances
•Features actual street performances and London locations
•Larry Adler's harmonica music became synonymous with the film
•Captured the transition from street entertainment to theater

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🏛️ CULTURAL LEGACY
This film stands as a beautiful time capsule of pre-war London entertainment culture, showcasing the vibrant street performance scene while telling a universal story about mentorship, ambition, and the price of success. It remains a cherished example of British cinema's golden age.

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💬 DISCUSSION
How does the film capture London's street culture? What makes the mentor-student relationship so compelling? How does Vivien Leigh's performance hint at her future stardom?

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