Travels with My Aunt (1972) Maggie Smith, George Cukor, Louis Gossett Jr, and George Cukor

Book Vs. Movie: Travels with My Aunt
The 1969 Graham Greene Novel Vs. the 1972 Maggie Smith Film

The Margos pack their suitcases for Graham Greene’s Travels with My Aunt and its 1972 film adaptation. The story of Henry Pulling, a reserved Englishman, whose life changes when his eccentric Aunt Augusta leads him on an adventurous journey across Europe. Greene explores the novel's themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and unconventional relationships with his signature dark humor. Augusta’s vibrant, morally ambiguous character makes Henry question his life choices. The film, directed by George Cukor and starring Maggie Smith as Augusta, takes a lighter, comedic approach. Henry’s character becomes more of a comedic foil to Augusta, and the adaptation focuses less on Augusta’s complex past. While the movie brings energy and charm, fans of the book often feel it lacks Greene’s depth.

So, which did the Margos prefer? Listen to find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The work of Graham Greene
• Maggie Smith!!!!! 
• The differences between the novel and the film. 
• The Movie Cast: Maggie Smith (Augusta Bertram,) Alec McGowen (Henry Pulling,) Louis Gosset Jr. (Zachary Wordsworth,) Robert Stephens (Ercole Visconti,) Cindy Williams (Tooley,) Robert Flemyng (Achille Dambreuse,) Corinne Marchand (Louise) and Valerie White as Mme. Dambreuse.  

Clips used:

• “Aunt August at the Funeral”
• Travels with My Aunt (original 1972 trailer)
• 1973 Academy Awards Best Costume Design
• “Aunt Augusta and Henry fly to Paris.”
• Travels with My Aunt soundtrack by Tony Hatch.

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