A Tale of Two Cities (1935)

The only thing I knew about the Dickens novel was the opening line. Though I have no idea if it adheres closely to the Dickens’s story, this version is an engaging story of various individuals (aristocrats, hoi polloi, and Londoners) in Paris and London during the years surrounding the French Revolution. Basil Rathbone is perfectly evil as the Marquis who begins the tale, crushing everyone beneath his whims. He is paralleled by Ronald Colman who portrays a superbly clever and noble version of lawyer Carton who is willing to make great sacrifices for the one he loves.  

Oscar Nominations: Best Picture; Best Film Editing