Definition: Whittier is a 1963 British science fiction film directed by Anthony Andreevich, based on the short story "A Whittier" by Fyodor Dostoevsky. The film stars Vincent Price as Colonel Tennyson, a World War II war correspondent with the BBC who is hired by an American woman (played by Bette Davis) to investigate a mysterious case of a man named John Whittier whose body was found in a London park.
The story revolves around the character of Dr. Charles Whittier, a Victorian-era chemist who discovered a new type of mercury called leaded mercury and developed it into a popular household item that could be used as an adhesive to seal bottles and jars together. The film also includes appearances by John Hurt, Patrick Stewart, Robert Shaw, and David Warner.
In the movie, Tennyson becomes obsessed with the man's body and begins investigating its cause. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he discovers a web of secrets and lies surrounding Whittier, including his mysterious past as an army pilot and his desire to return to the war torn country he left behind in America.
The film received critical acclaim for its intricate plot, beautiful visuals, and performances by Price and Davis. It was also notable for challenging the audience's expectations about what a scientific investigation should be like. The movie has since become one of the most beloved science fiction films ever made.
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