Queen Eleanor Buys Some Chips

Martita Hunt buys some chips.

When was the last time you saw a monarch buy some chips? Or even a film star in a local chippy?

The image above was sent to me by Neil Vessey. Neil has been a regular contributor to this site down the years and found this 'Picture Post' article showing the wonderful actress Martita Hunt (1899-1969), in a chip shop. 

The magazine states that the photograph was taken during a break in the filming of Treasure Hunt. This movie was released the same year as her appearance in Walt Disney's live-action movie, The Story of Robin Hood and his Merrie Men (1952).

Martita Hunt is of course, remembered for her portrayal of Miss Haversham in David Lean’s excellent Great Expectations (1946). But, her powerful screen presence was suited perfectly for her role as Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine in Robin Hood. 

Martita Hunt as Queen Eleanor

Maid Marian and her Father

Clement McCalin and Joan Rice

My last two posts have featured the actors Clement McCallin (1913-1977) and Joan Rice (1930-1997), who both appeared in Disney’s live-action film, The Story of Robin Hood and his Merrie Men (1952). Here is a lovely movie still of both of them together. 

Clement McCallin only had a small role as the Earl of Huntingdon, Maid Marian’s father, which is unfortunate, because I believe more could have been added to his story. But, Joan’s Maid Marian played an integral part in the whole film. As Sherron Lux says in her paper, And ‘The Reel’ Maid Marian, it is misleading to call the film ‘The Story of Robin Hood’, as it should be ‘Marian’s Story’ .

In Disney’s first film version The Story of Robin Hood, Joan’s portrayal of Maid Marian stands in sharp contrast to earlier, and even many later versions of the legend. She is bright and courageous. Which was groundbreaking for the time. Maid Marian defies the Queen, disguises herself as a page and escapes to the outlaw camp. She then initiates her own campaign to raise money for the kings ransom. For her trouble she gets locked up in a damp dungeon, but ultimately proves Robin’s loyalty to the king. It’s a pity Disney didn’t consider a sequel! 
What do you think?