The History of Mr. Polly

John Mills stars in this celebrated adaptation of the H G Wells classic. Mr Polly is a sensitive soul. His job as a draper’s assistant does not suit him at all and when, one day he is sacked for day-dreaming, he despairs of ever finding another job. His father’s death suddenly brings him a large inheritance, and with it he purchases a bike and sets off to find adventure. He meets and falls desperately in love with a young girl, but the relationship turns sour when her friends hear of it. Spurned, he hastily marries his cousin, Miriam, and settles in a sleepy town where he opens a draper’s shop.

Streaming info last checked: 20 Jan 2026