The Black Velvet Gown (1991) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Release, runtime and language

1991 · 103 mins · English

#22,975 1

Directed by

Norman Stone

Starring

Janet McTeer, David Hunt, Geraldine Somerville, Louise Lombard, Jean Anderson, Jonathan Firth

In 1830s England, widow Riah Millican becomes housekeeper for teacher Percival Miller, who gives her a black gown and educates children. She learns his motives, tries to leave, but his will binds her after death, leaving her his house if she never marries. Riah’s daughter Biddy works as a laundress; she draws the master’s son, hinting at happiness.