Where to Watch Svengali (1931) in the UK

What it's about

Sinister music maestro Svengali can control the actions of women through hypnotism and his telepathic powers. When a pupil he has seduced announces she has left her husband for him, he uses his powers to cause her suicide and promptly forgets her. He meets a beautiful model, Trilby, and becomes infatuated with her, but she, in turn, falls for a young artist called Billee who also loves her. One day Svengali hypnotizes Trilby to cure her headache, but also examines her upper palate and decides it is an ideal cavity for great singing. He convinces her to fake her suicide, so Billee and friends will forget her, and goes on a singing tour with her. Svengali uses his powers to make her sing wonderfully and Madame Svengali, as Trilby is now known, becomes a sensation throughout Europe. But Billee discovers the ruse and begins to follow the pair, upsetting Svengali enough to have him cancel performances too frequently, so they no longer can perform in Europe. They go to Egypt, but Billee relentlessly follows.

Cast and crew

Director

Archie Mayo

Writer

George L. Du Maurier, J. Grubb Alexander

Starring

John Barrymore, Marian Marsh, Donald Crisp

Details

Release date

May 22, 1931

Language

English, French, Italian, German

Country

United States

Awards

Nominated for 2 Oscars. 2 nominations total

Where to Watch Svengali (1931) in the UK — common questions

Where to watch Svengali in the United Kingdom?

We have not confirmed a streaming, rental, or purchase option for Svengali in the United Kingdom.

Can I stream Svengali or do I have to rent it in the United Kingdom?

We have not confirmed a subscription, rental, or purchase option for Svengali in the United Kingdom.

Can I watch Svengali for free in the United Kingdom?

We have not confirmed a free option for Svengali in the United Kingdom.