Phonearl Good start, but then it gets ruined

Majorthebys Charming and brutal

Organnall Too much about the plot just didn't add up, the writing was bad, some of the scenes were cringey and awkward,

Aneesa Wardle The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.

TheLittleSongbird Although it is not 100% faithful to the book, it is the most faithful in spirit of the four versions I've seen. Of the four though on its own, I do prefer Hitchcock's 1935 film, for how well made and directed it is and how suspenseful it is. This version is better however than the well done if slightly flat 1959 film and the awful 2008 TV adaptation. The pace sags in the middle perhaps, but this is a very well done film both as an adaptation and on its own merits. The locations look beautiful and are very atmospherically photographed, while the score adds much to the often thrilling and suspenseful tone. The script is intelligent and does feel as though it's flowing naturally, and the story is securely paced and the suspense is in equal measure with Hitchcock's like with Hannay's escape from the train. If there is one scene though that I prefer over the Hitchcock film, it's the climax, which I found thrilling and not as rushed. Robert Powell has both the bearing and charm for Richard Hannay, Karen Dotrice is a likable female interest and David Warner is an ever charismatic presence. The villains are suitably ruthless also. All in all, a very well done film, well made, engaging and mostly faithful. 8/10 Bethany Cox

Ken Roberts This version of The Thirty Nine Steps is the best of the lot. It is truly a pity that it has been totally overshadowed by the earlier Hitchcock version, which comes across somewhat stark and dingy in comparison.The Rank Productions version with Robert Powell keeps the suspense moving throughout, and the ending is a cliffhanger in the best tradition of the genre.I have looked for a copy of this for years, and have yet to find it released here. I am saddened that this version has never been released on DVD (at least not in the USA) and wish it was given its due, especially considering all the drivel that is released on a daily basis. This is one older movie that deserves better exposure, and credit, than it has.

neilnewt cinematography, acting and pace outstanding. Better than the Hitchcock original (and I thought it was superb also). Where can I obtain a DVD or VHS? John Buchan's novel is tweaked a bit to bring the plot to a more contemporary milieu as opposed to a prior to the Great War time, but the excitement of the chase and the quick witted competence of the Renaissance man Richard Hannay (as played by Richard Powell) stands up well to the many action heroes of present day cinema (Bruce Willis, Matt Damon, the new James Bond, etc.). Also, one of the best performances by David Warner I have seen - truly sinister! Hitchcock actually thought Buchan's "Greenmantle" was a better novel, but it has never been produced. I wish Bevis, Clarke and Smith would produce a sequel!!!!

kenharris8 Much like "North by Northwest" but without a name star like Cary Grant attached to it. Great performances turned in by Robert Powell and, albeit briefly, Sir John Mills. David Warner gives a very good turn as the ringleader of a group of spies in 1914 Britain, before the start of WWI. Powell becomes the center of their attention when he comes to the aid of Colonel Scudder played by John Mills. Powell escapes from the spies clutches and the chase across England is on as Powell tries to decipher the mystery of the thirty-nine steps. Karen Dotrice turns up near the end to help our man Powell stop the spy ring. The only bad thing about this movie is the absence of any feel of the historic time period. While England's presumed entry into WWI is mentioned it isn't really relevant to the story. The same story could have been told using any time period.