Thriller,Adventure   United Kingdom

"Pimpernel Smith" is a 1941 British comedy-drama film directed by and starring Leslie Howard. The story revolves around eccentric archaeologist Horatio Smith, who uses his pre-war excavations in Nazi Germany as a cover to rescue Jewish prisoners from concentration camps.

The film begins with Professor Horatio Smith and his loyal assistant, Professor Hoffman (Peter Gawthorne), leading a group of British and American archaeology students on a trip to Germany to conduct excavations. Under the guise of searching for evidence of the Aryan origins of German civilization, Smith gains the support of the Nazis, who see it as an opportunity to promote their propaganda.

Unbeknownst to the Nazis, Smith is secretly using his position to free Jewish inmates from concentration camps. Operating under the alias of "The Pimpernel," inspired by the historical figure Sir Percy Blakeney, Smith orchestrates daring rescue missions, outwitting the Nazis at every turn.

As Smith and his students continue their archaeological work, they befriend some local Germans who are opposed to Hitler's regime. Smith uses these relationships to gather information about the concentration camps and plan his rescues.

One day, Smith encounters a British journalist, Sally (Mary Morris), who has gone undercover in Germany to investigate the treatment of Jews. They become allies and work together to uncover evidence of the atrocities committed by the Nazis. Sally's presence adds an element of danger as the Gestapo becomes suspicious of her activities.

As the rescue missions become riskier and the Nazis become more vigilant, Smith's students become increasingly aware of his secret agenda. They willingly join his cause, aiding in the liberation of the concentration camp inmates. The tension escalates as the Gestapo closes in on Smith and his group.

In a climactic rescue attempt, Smith and his students successfully liberate a group of prisoners from a concentration camp, but not without consequences. Facing imminent capture by the Nazis, Smith sacrifices himself to ensure the survivors' escape.

In the end, Sally and the remaining students manage to flee Nazi Germany, taking with them the evidence of Nazi atrocities and Horatio Smith's legacy of heroism. The film concludes with a powerful message warning against the rising fascism and the importance of fighting for freedom and human rights.

"Pimpernel" Smith portrays a unique blend of suspense, comedy, and heroism, highlighting the bravery of individuals during one of history's darkest periods. Leslie Howard's portrayal of Horatio Smith delivers a charismatic and unforgettable character, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
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