The Patricia Roc Filmography
The Divorce of Lady X
London Films 1938 92mins Colour (Technicolor)
Directed by: Tim Whelan Produced by: Alexander Korda (uncredited) Starring: Merle Oberon, Laurence Olivier, Binnie Barnes, Ralph Richardson
Plot Synopsis
Since this film only has Pat in a tiny bit part I'm not going to go into it in too much
detail - but essentially Laurence Olivier plays a barrister who falls in love with
Leslie (played by Merle Oberon). They meet by chance when fog limits the number of
hotel rooms available and he is forced to share his rooms with her (much to his
distaste intially). Later it emerges that Leslie is the woman he thinks his
client will soon be divorcing. But of course being a romantic comedy with farcical elements
it's not as simple as that and complications soon ensue.
Commentry
Both Laurence Olivier and Merle Oberon are superb in this film and it's
a fine example of early British comedy. The film is well worth watching in it's
own right.
Pat only has a bit part with no lines but it is her first
screen performance so I have included it here for completeness.
Really you would have a tough time finding her
but from my interview with her she said: "My first film
appearance was with Merle Oberon in "The Divorce of Lady
X". I used to ride an awful lot, and I was an extra in the
background on horseback! That was the first thing that gave
me the idea to act...". I asked her if we might spot her
if we watch carefully and she replied "Oh, I doubt it,
you wouldn't recognise me. You might recognise the horse,
but I'm sure you wouldn't recognise me... (laughs)". When
I recently watched the film I
kept an eagle eye out for her. She was right in that the
only scene in the film with horseback riders are
preparations for a fox hunt and if she is in it the
appearance is very fleeting. I didn't recognise her as any of the
horse riders but the frame grab below just might be
her standing by the door (not on horseback). Probably only
Pat herself knew for sure though!
Availability
At the time of writing Network DVD have this released and available. The transfer
is very good and it's a superb example of technicolor from the 1930s. You can get
a copy easily at Amazon (to the left) or if you fancy your chances finding a bargain
