Another of the forgotten gems of Crawford's career. This trifle of a play, (which reads badly) is transformed by George Cukor and an all-star cast into a marvelous film. It's Joan Crawford on speed, Freddy March doing his dour drunk, Ruth Hussey, Nigel Bruve, Rita Hayworth, Rose Hobart, Bruce Cabot, and Marjorie Main all thrown into some of the most glamorous settings, costumes, and situations there can can be in an MGM film. Then, the fun starts. Crawford is a marvel as Susan, (who knew anyone but Billie Burke and Rosalind Russell could talk that fast?) who truly believes that only by wrecking the lives of all around her with her judgments and opinions can she help them be truly happy. The funny lines abound; Marjorie Main:"Look at this hallway, 'frighten Dracula." Also, after the argument between Susan and Barrie that sets up their "happy" family summer together, look at the strange sado-masochistic smile on Susan's face after Barrie's threatened to hit her with a chair and she realizes he may not be the sop she thought. See this film if only to see Crawford in a truly champagne comedy.
Reviews
2 Reviews
Romantic Comedy
(1983)
Delightful Dialogue, Rotten design.
14 January 2009
Warning: Spoilers
I first ran across "Romantic Comedy" when it was on cable while I was in High School. (In 1984!!!) I found myself watching it over and over, loving the clever plotting and dialogue. I was just getting involved in acting and stage design then, and knew it was based on a play, having seen the superb "Same Time, Next Year" which is very similar.I love, love , love this movie. More so since I've now played "Jason Carmicheal" on stage. The 2 things that spoil this movie for me are big factors in what made "Same time...." so effective. First, they "open up" the movie to show New York. All well and good, but as with the previous film, the whole idea is that these characters are sealed in a world of their own making. The play takes place entirely in Jason's study. Second, and worse, the costume design, hair and makeup. The story begins in the 50's, and here's Phoebe in the opening credits, with long hair, no hat, no gloves, knee socks!! The only nod to the 50's is she's wearing saddle oxfords. She's a school teacher, not a school student.If they'd done the periods correctly, the changes in her character would have been even more evident. Think of the cast meandering through the 60's. Big hair, loud makeup, short dresses, then the 70's, the environment, falls, polyester, then into the preppy 80's which is pretty much where the entire film looks like it's set. A shame really, this film is so good, and would have been EVEN better if they'd stayed true. But, put that aside. There are great actors, terrific dialogue and wonderful music to be had here. Enjoy!!!!!
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