Question 1

What dangerous mishap occurred during the filming of the Admiral's sinking ship scene?

Accepted Answer

Sir Alec Guinness nearly drowned when the crew forgot to release him from wires holding him underwater after the scene, but a technician quickly freed him with wire-cutters.

Question 2

How many roles did Sir Alec Guinness play in the film, and why was it more than initially offered?

Accepted Answer

Sir Alec Guinness played eight roles, as he insisted on portraying all the D'Ascoyne family members after initially being offered only four.

Question 3

What was added to the film for U.S. audiences due to censorship concerns?

Accepted Answer

An alternative ending was required for the U.S. because the Production Code stipulated crime could not pay, adding ten seconds that were later found at the Museum of Modern Art.

Question 4

How was the scene with six D'Ascoyne family members, all played by Guinness, filmed?

Accepted Answer

It took two days using a stationary camera on a platform, with matte-painted glass windows opened one at a time for each character, and the film wound back between shots.

Question 5

What awards or festivals recognized 'Kind Hearts and Coronets'?

Accepted Answer

The film was recognized at the BAFTA Awards, National Board of Review, New York Film Critics Circle Awards in 1950, and the Venice Film Festival in 1949.

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Kind Hearts and Coronets

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