Adapted from the warhorse stage tearjerker by Jane Cowl and Jane Murfin, this 1941 film version of
Smilin' Through
is even hokier than two earlier movie adaptations, but it works beautifully thanks to the sensitive direction of Frank Borzage. Brian Aherne dominates the proceedings as the aged Sir John Carteret, who has lived in embittered seclusion since the tragic wedding-day death of his beloved fiancee Moonyean Clare. Upon the outbreak of WW2, Cateret's estate is visited by his orphaned American niece Kathleen (Jeanette MacDonald), who is the living image of the late Moonyean. Finding a new lease on life, Sir John hopes against hope to avert the romantic disasters of his past, but this proves difficult when it appears that the deadly rivalries which cost the life of Moonyean are poised to avail themselves once more. Costarring in the dual role of Moonyean's ex-lover Jeremy and Kathleen's current beau Kenneth is Gene Raymond, soon to become the husband of Jeanette MacDonald.