Reviews (7)

A "Non Typical" Vehicle For Comedy Greats Hope And Ball
Anyone coming to a viewing of "The Facts of Life", thinking that they will see a zany Lucy and a fast quipping Bob Hope are liable to come away a bit let down here as these two comedy legends take on relatively "straight" characters in a most interesting social comedy/drama about the pitfalls of infidelity and marital commitments. Seen through the thoughts of Lucille Ball's character of "happily married" Kitty Weaver, "The Facts of Life", marks a most pleasing change of pace for the two leads who handle the very "adult" subject matter (at least for 1960!), with great expertise. Lucille Ball in particular in a performance far removed from lovable Lucy Ricardo is superb and her strong dramatic moments here really illustrate a part of her acting expertise seldom seen before.

"The Facts of Life", focuses on life in a tightly knit upper middle class suburban community, and as Lucy's character of Kitty informs us everyone knows each other, socialises with each others and knows what is in store for them probably for the rest of their lives. Kitty is married to Jack Weaver (Don DeFore),a workaholic who really hasn't been spending the proper amount of time with his wife and children. Larry Gilbert (Bob Hope) is another "branch", of the extended social network in the community who is married to "perfect" wife Mary (Ruth Hussey). Even though the families socialise together and even vacation together every year Kitty always views Larry as a pain in the neck who delivers unfunny comedy sketches at the local club and really isn't someone she wants around alot of the time despite the families being friends. When the groups annual vacation time comes up they all plan to travel to Acapulco however through a series of circumstances Kitty and Larry find themselves not only "spouseless", on the holiday but thrown together as company for the entire vacation. Both circle each other carefully for the first few days trying not to be in each others way however on a planned fishing boat trip the two suddenly begin to realise the other is not the horror they had thought. A rapport begins in particular after they realise they went to the same school and know some of the same past students. Common ground develops into some genuine laughs between the two and then a true love blossoms between them. The time comes however for the two to face reality and return to the United States and their normal lives. Back at home the two try to avoid each other but both find the going tough as the find their marriages empty and the need for each other still strong. The two have an aborted attempt to stay in a motel over night together and then a diseasterous attempt at a weekend away which concludes in a equally horrendous air flight home,sours their thoughts of a life together. The two realise that their families do need them and that the "facts of life", for each are that what they had in Acapulco is something that isn't possible at the stage they are at in their lives. The conclusion sees the couple back with their respective spouses returning to the "normal", existence they had before they "discovered", each other.

Considered "racy", stuff for 1960's audiences "The Facts of Life", handles the issues of adultery and temptation in a surprisingly tasteful manner. The characters of Kitty and Larry never come across as unlikeable characters and it's a real credit to the playing of Lucille Ball and Bob Hope that this quite delicate subject matter is handled so well. Lucille Ball I feel really came of age as an actress here and her Kitty is a wonderful combination of someone wanting to be a free spirit but who is still troubled with a sound conscience about the reprecussions of what she feels tempted to do with Larry. Of course there are a number of very amusing scenes for Lucy to shine in, namely the hilarious drive in scene and the action on board the ship where she fights a giant marlin for hours which are sure to have you laughing at Lucy's supreme comedy talent. Being slightly older of course than when she had her golden comedy time as Lucy Ricardo also helps and she definately displays a new maturity with a serious character to work with. Lucille Ball and Bob Hope always combined well on screen and the pair did a number of highly successful comedy films together. However in alot of ways "The Facts of Life", is one of the more interesting as both are forced by the screenplay (written by writer/director Melvin Frank and Norman Panama) to actually stretch themselves as actors with real characters to work with that aren't all laughs and comedy high jinks.

One doesn't normally associate Lucy or Bob Hope with warm romantic stories with characters in a moral dilemma however this is what makes "The Facts of Life", recommended viewing and despite many saying Bob Hope in particular was miscast I personally feel it reveals much pleasing work by the comedian who has as always a magical chemistry with his leading lady. For more bittersweet moments than huge belly laughs try and view "The Facts of Life", soon it shows a pleasingly different Bob Hope and Lucille Ball that I believe you will find most appealing.

Beautiful!
This is a wonderful Ball-Hope movie that takes a serious, yet often humerous, look at relationships. The characters of Ball and Hope are married--but not to each other--and fall in love when unexpected events find them alone together on a vaction. They spend much of the film trying to forget what has happened, but find it increasingly difficult. A bitter-sweet ending makes this movie a classic, both for movie fans, and espcially the fans of these comedic giants.

Hilarious!
This movie is VERY good. I didn't want it to end! Lucy was AWESOME in this movie. She handles the material very well considering just before this movie was filmed she went through a divorce (because of Desi's affairs). The ending is a little twisted. But this movie is WORTH EVERY PENNY!

Disappointed in "Facts of Life"
Not your typical Hope-Ball movie re: laughs. Film is drawnout & without many laughs. If you need a fix for a Hope-Ball movie, try something else besides this.

Great Script, Great Lucy--Too Bad Bob Hope's in it . . .
A very charming little film about a husband and wife from two different marriages who wobble on the verge of adultery when they're stuck on a long-planned vacation without their respective spouses. The script, by Norman Panama and Melvin Frank (long-time writers for both Bob Hope and Martin and Lewis) is a nice balance of wit and sentiment, and there's a lovely performance by Lucille Ball--this is Lucille Ball the actress, not Lucy the supreme and inspired dipstick--the ending, when she pulls away from her almost-lover, despite her feelings for him, is genuniely wrenching.

Unfortunately, the would-be lover is Bob Hope, who was OK in vaudeville and radio, and in movies crafted as elaborations on his schtick in these other mediums. But Hope was a limited comedian at best, and was never, NEVER an actor. His attempts to have deeper feelings on screen are almost embarassing. With the right actor, such as James Stewart or Cary Grant, this film might have been a minor classic. As it is, it's certainly worth having a look. If only for Lucy. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

I Love Howie/Bobo !
This movie starts off slow, but soon enough it picks up and its hilarious. Howie Mandel was a comic genious. My favorite scene is where he changes clothes in a dressing room but the dressing room was...umm..occupied! You'll love it too.

An Absolute Childhood Classic!
I remember watching this video every day, when I was very young, until my siblings were blue in the face with annoyance! :) I am 17 now and this movie is still a favorite with me. I would really like to have it in my collection but I am having trouble finding it! It is a must have!

how can you get funnier than this
the very first time i saw this movie i was laughing so much that tears were rolling down my face.the best part was when they were in church and bobo was howling to the song.there were parts in this movie that would make anybody laugh.this is one that should be on dvd i would be one of the first ones to buy it.

Laugh out loud funny
This has to be just about the funniest movie I ever saw. Howie Mandel is excellent as Bobo a man lost in the woods for 28 years raised by wolves. This movie is very kid friendly and good family entertainment. There is no sex or violence in the movie. I very highly recommend Walk Like A Man to anyone who enjoys laughing a lot.

Howie Mandel at his best!
If you like Howie Mandel and his type of humor, you will really enjoy this movie. I laughed out loud at his portrayal of being a wolf that is being trained to be a man. This film is unique because it doesn't have any violence or wild love making yet it is good. I found humor based on Howie's body language. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Should've Been on the AFI's list of "Top 100 Romantic Films"
I saw this movie when it first came out in the 70's and have seen it many times on and off for years.

The movie is funny, but what makes it work is the two stars. George Segal (who never looked better) is in fine comedic form, and he and Glenda Jackson complement each other perfectly. She was especially singled out for critical acclaim -- some people compared her to Katharine Hepburn in Hepburn's comedic roles.

The movie also affords a look at London in the early 70's.

Because the actors work so well together, I would've liked a different (happier) ending for the movie. Still, after thirty years, "A Touch of Class" remains very watchable and poignant -- largely because of the two stars.

creepy and disturbing
I did not like this movie. I know that times have changed and it would be revisionist to hold this movie to millennium standards of sexual conduct and infidelity. Nonetheless, I found it very disturbing: his lack of concern for his wife and children, how the wife was unsympathetic and one dimensional, and how absolutely de rigueur it was in the sixties for married men to have "a bit on the side." And what about her kids? apart from the first scene we never see them again; she instead seems to spend all her time cooking and keeping house for a married man. I'm not a prude, really, but this film left a bad taste in my mouth.

One of the funniest, sexiest, smartest movies I've ever seen
...and I'm not easy to please. It's strange when you realize just how sexy George Segal was. But the movie is wonderfully written, sharp, smart and incredibly funny. I saw another reviewer liked The Goodbye Girl better. I prefered this...Sharper, more biting, less sentimental. That doesn't mean it's heartless or even cynical, just that it's lacking in syrup. George Segal and Glenda Jackson have the all the chemistry and the comedic chops (and then some) needed to make this movie work. This movie made me laugh a lot, was sexy enough to warm any cold night and smart enough to make me feel like the people who made it figured I had at least a high school education. How come comedic movies this smart don't get made by the major studios anymore?

A great movie that will one day be remade
Glenda Jackson and George Segal tear up the screen and nearly each other in this frothy 1973 Oscar-winning comedy. The relationship is the key here and the two leads almost define screen chemistry. Shot in London and Malaga, Spain, it's also a fun date film. The DVD transfer is pretty decent considering the age. Whatever your tastes in film, this is a pretty tough one not to like.

With Hollywood remaking classics like "Charade," this one seems a solid bet. Who would they pick today? Oh, probably Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake.

How come it's unavailable???
Extremely funny, light-hearted movie. Whether it was worthy of a best actress oscar is debateable, but nonetheless: HOW CAN AN OSCAR WINNING FILM NOT BE AVAILABLE IN THIS DAY & AGE?????? ... Read more

Amazon.com

Danny Kaye spoofs Robin Hood and Scaramouche in this inventive slapstick swashbuckler. Portraying the clownish but good-hearted entertainer Hawkins, he infiltrates the court of the corrupt Basil Rathbone (up to his usual brand of cruel villainy) disguised as the legendary king of jesters, Giacomo. After a court sorceress hypnotizes Hawkins into believing he is also a legendary assassin, Hawkins has more identities than he can keep straight, and Kaye zips back and forth between them at, literally, a snap of the fingers. Comic highlights include a wonderful sword fight with Rathbone in which he constantly switches identities, and the classic "chalice from the palace/vessel with pestle" wordplay as Hawkins plays "hide the poison" and forgets where it is. With comely Glynis Johns as his spy-in-arms love interest, Angela Lansbury as the scheming princess, and Mildred Natwick as the dotty spellcaster, this is Danny Kaye at his comic best. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Charming and Hilarious Re-telling of the Robin Hood Story
I am not a great Danny Kaye fan, but this movie is one the the very funniest I've ever seen. Everything about it is excellent, from the production values to the songs & lyrics, from the fine quality of actors to the charm and wit of the dialogue and the story. There is literally nothing wrong with this movie. It is fit for all audiences, from the youngest to the oldest members of your family. I remember the first time I saw it, being struck by the fact that all the actors seemed to be having an absolutely marvellous time. Particularly during the Jester's first call at entertaining the court...unforgettable and sheer delight. Every single person on camera looked like they were having a wonderful time just being there. I hadn't seen anything like such a fine emsemble cast since 'All About Eve.' I think it must have been because there were no bad lines, no bad parts, no scenes that didn't work, and everyone had a chance to shine. Having a good material to work with really does make a world of difference. Stars Danny Kaye, Angela Landsbury, Basil Rathbone, and a host of marvellous British actors whose names are right now escaping my memory. Buy it. Keep it. Enjoy it for years.

The Brew that is True...
If one is tired of baudy bathroom humor of the typical comedies one finds today, perhaps "The Court Jester" will satisfy your comical thirst. Set in England during the time of chivalry and knighthood this musical comedy stars Danny Kaye as a ne'er do well circus performer who ends up out"fox"ing the dastardly villains, getting the girl and saving the real king's butt (so to speak). Glynis Johns plays Maid Jean whose stunning beauty and big eyes just make you melt (wow, I wish I'd been born earlier). Basil Rathbone is his typical bad self as the evil Ravenhurst playing it to the hilt! This film pulls out all the comical stops from tongue twisters to hypnosis, magnetism and even a Zorro sword play spoof with Rathbone! This is Danny Kaye's finest and funniest comedy! A must see movie!

Comedy Could Not Better Be!
In the history of the movies, fewer things are more amusing than watching Danny Kaye behave as Danny Kaye. Watching his films was a wonderful part of my childhood,and I remember being at home from High School on the day of his passing. I'm very glad for the legacy he has left us to enjoy.
In "The Court Jester" he couldn't be more in his element as he amuses us with his usual patter numbers clever, tounge-twisting lyrics and sword play, and moves us with his loving care of the orphaned infant heir to the English throne. The scene of his lullabying the baby was shown as a tribute to him at the end of "Entertainment Tonight" the weekend after his death and it was a fitting tribute to him, his love of children, and the childlike sense of wonder he brought to all of his films.
As Kaye's love interest, Jean, a charismatic Glynis Johns is highly complimentary.She is not the sterotypical woman of medeival times, but having been raised as a boy, has a lot of cunning, ingenuity, and an occassional bit of brawn as the leader of those in rebellion against Cecil Parker's evil King.
Angela Lansbury's Princess Gwendolyn longs for true love rather than an arranged marriage. She is firm and decisive in many ways, as she helps bring the tale to a positive conclusion.
As the sourceress, Mildred Natwick leads into some of the film's funniest scenes, including the notorious "Pellet with the poison is in the vessel with the pestle" routine that has become a classic.
Hubert Hawkins' cleverness in seizing the real Court Jester,(John Carradine, a man whom I could never really think of as funny) who was very arrogant, disguising himself in his clothes, and using his tounge-twisting dialogue with the King to cover his tracks is also a riot.
Basil Rathbone as the evil henchmen is a refined villian. It's amusing the way Kaye kept pushing his name out of the way during the opening credits, and I have wondered how often Hawkins' accelerated knighthood ceremony had to be rehearsed before those on the set could stop laughing.

Although the film overlooks the fact that a person can't be hypnotized against their will, the way Hubert Hawkins is, the comedy is generally light, and goofy, doesen't get any saucier than the exposure of an infant's backside, and children will love it.
And as Hawkins reassures us at the beginning,"What starts like a scary tale ends like a fairy tale, and life couldn't possibly better be!"

So funny your cheeks will ache from laughing!!
This is one of Danny Kaye's best. He was so talented and his comic timing is impeccable. The "chalice from the palace" scene is so funny that I have not forgotten it over the years. This movie will get you out of the blues in no time.

You will go and buy this movie and do it like that (snap)!
This is my favorite movie of all time. When I was a kid Danny Kaye movies played every Sunday morning and we would wait the few months until it came around again.

I have never stopped laughing at the scenes, the funny interplay between Danny Kaye and the court and his continual buffonery.

Even kids will love this movie. It starts with a dance routine which is almost like Robin Hood Men in Tights. That is quaint, yet the next scene will take you in and take you on the funniest rides of all time.

Kaye, disquised as an old man who is hard of hearing having a scream fest with the captain of the guard. This few minutes is one of the funniest scenes I have ever witnessed. Then there are just funny scenes that will make you split your sides with laughter from there on out.

The wit it took to bring together this cast and the concept of the movie seems that it will never be outdated.

What Danny Kaye and the rest do here is ascend age and time making this movie appeal to any age group, young or old. I have seen a young family start off thinking this was a silly movie then, taken by the first comedic interaction, launch into continuous laughter. I laugh getting a kick out of watching everyone else laugh too.

This movie is a must for any DVD or VHS library. Share it with your friends, watch it when you are a little too stressed out to do anything else to lighten up your day.

The plays on words, the different fast paced situational scenes that will have you thinking; 'how clever...,' even when you think that Hawkins/Giacommo is at his end, then it gets even funnier. The Chalis with the poisly has the pellet with the pesly......

This movie is so fast paced that you cannot believe you have sat there and laughed for the better part of 90 minutes. The great thing about the DVD, you do not have to worry about watching this over and over again and wearing it out.

This movie has great color and scenery. The imagery is wonderful. You wonder if they really were in a castle.

Laugh and love this movie......I recommend it for school, church and family activities. It is a classic that may become more well known with time. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Not good
As a big fan of 60s comedies, I find this one seriously lacking. There's no chemistry between Rock and Gina, nothing likeable about their characters, and nothing compelling about the storyline. I do believe I laughed once during the movie however, but I can't remember why. Actually I only got this movie because it came packaged with Man's Favorite Sport, which actually IS a good and funny movie.

Bad DVD of a Good Movie
Not genuine letterboxed. Portion of original picture missing. Read review under the orginal DVD two-pack release of Strange Bedfellows/Man's Favoite Sport.

Gina and Rock or Rock and Gina?
This couple, Rock Hudson and Gina Lolibridgita is always fighting because she's different from him and has her own idea and stands for women's rights and then before you know they are made for each other but she also is involved with another man with hilarious results so be prepared to laugh. Find out who gets the girl by watching the movie. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

A Non-PC Guilty Pleasure
Based on Al Capp's long-lived send-up of hillbilly life, this 1959 production of "Lil Abner" definitely violates contemporary standards related to cultural sensitivity and political correctness, but I have to confess that I still find it funny and charming.

I can certainly understand that southern hill people would find the unrelenting ridicule with which they are treated in this show offensive (the portrayal of Indians as comical purveyors of "Kickapoo Joy Juice" is also hard to overlook). On the other hand, however, the movie overall should be seen as a satirical farce, one that skewers corporate executives and Washington politicians every bit as fiercely as it does poor white mountain people. As such, viewers can't be blamed for enjoying the knee-slapping comedy and (especially) the catchy and clever songs that render the show truly memorable.

The staging of "Lil Abner" is low-budget and cheesy, including amateurishly painted scenic backdrops and for some reason, evergreen trees that have been allowed to turn brown and dead-looking. The numerous ensemble dance numbers are competently choreographed, but from a post-millenial vantage point, this style of frenetic, jazzy dance routine gets tiresome quickly.

Overall, the show is lots of fun for the social and political satire it incorporates, and for the memorable musical numbers, including especially the hilarious "Jubilation T. Cornpone," Leslie Parrish as Daisy Mae's lamenting "I'm Past My Prime," and the short but priceless ditty that declared, "What's good for General Bullmoose is good for the U.S.A." Great stuff!

It's the Al Capp of Earthquake McGoon, Stupifyin' Jones, Marryin' Sam, Mammy Yokum, and Sadie Hawkins Day that I remember fondly, and it's this playfully fun vision of Dogpatch U.S.A. that is captured so well in "Lil' Abner." In light of his earlier achievements, perhaps the later, curmudgeonly Al Capp, who pilloried students for opposing the Viet Nam war (to the point of creating a nasty parody of singer Joan Baez named "Joanie Phoanie"), can be forgiven.

Political satire that was ahead of its time
We live in a world where dangerous nuclear testing, corrupt politicians, ruthless big business, and uncomfortable gender role reversals are the norm. Why didn't we listen to Norman Panama and Melvin Frank back in 1957 when the movie of Li'l Abner was made? The jokes may be corny (with double entendres that must have gone straight over the head of the Hayes Office)...but the satire is biting and still relevant today. It was consciously campy before they even invented camp.

The producers pulled off a miraculous feat of casting to get actors and singers who resemble the preposterously proportioned cartoon characters of Al Capp. Watch for an uncredited cameo from Jerry Lewis, a stupefyingly gorgeous Julie Newmar as Stupefyin' Jones, and a beautifully underplayed Stella Stevens as Appassionata von Climax (see what I mean about the double entendres...she gets the best lines in the film!)

Often, when a stage musical is translated to film, the producers place it in a naturalistic setting...like "South Pacific", for example. In many ways, I think that demeans it; the movie setting is less of a fantasy world than it was in stage. No such attempt with Li'l Abner. The crazy cartoon world fits perfectly into a studio set that looks like it was drawn rather than constructed.

Oh, by the way. I want General Bullmoose's limousine. It must be worth a fortune, now...

Cute for the time and a great musical for high school kids.
I've seen this musical about 3 times. Once when I was about 8 and then 2 more times as an adult. When I was a Junior in High School, my chorus did this musical. I played the part of Pappy Yokem. We all fell in love with the musical because our cast fit the parts perfectly. I think this musical is a classic because Lil' Abner was a very popular comic strip while I was growing up and the movie version captured each character as close to the comic strip as possible.

FORGET ALL YOUR TROUBLES !
I have seen this movie several times since I was a kid and it always cracks me up.No one so far mentioned that one of the dancers ( I think in the "put em' back number") looks like (has to be) the other waitress on the tv's "ALICE" ( not Flo ).( email me @ heygeno@webtv.net if you know ).Today is the first time I recognized Jerry Lewis as a cameo! I am buying this video today.

Fun-filled satire
It may not be a classic, but "Li'l Abner" is a lively movie with a convoluted storyline that does credit to its creator, the late Al Capp. All the characters are here: Hairless Joe and Lonesome Polecat, brewers extraordinaire of Kickapoo Joy Juice; Moonbeam McSwine (Carmen Alvarez), who sings that "sleepin' out with pigs is my line;" Earthquake McGoon (Bern Hoffman), the "world's champeen dirty rassler," who is so besotted with the beautiful Daisy Mae (Parrish) that he conspires with Senator Jack S. Phogbound (Ted Thurston) to get Dogpatch evacuated and destroyed so its inhabitants will be forced to give up their cherished tradition of Sadie Hawkins Day, under which no man can marry a girl unless she first catches him in the annual race (Daisy, of course, has eyes only for Li'l Abner); Available Jones (William Lanteau), the avaricious storekeeper, and his cousin, the statuesque Stupefyin' (Julie Newmar), whose body can stop any red-blooded male dead in his tracks; General Bullmoose (Howard St. John), the world's richest man, who dreams of owning "all the money in the world," and his "executive secretary," the redheaded Appassionatta Von Climax (Stella Stevens), who plot to gain control of the formula for Yokumberry Tonic (even unto planning Abner's murder); Evil-Eye Fleagle (Al Nesor), the scurrying Brooklynite with an arsenal of "whammies," who hires out to further their plan; "mystical" and "pugilistical" Mammy Yokum (Billie Hayes), who originated the tonic, and her henpecked husband Pappy (Joe E. Marks); Marryin' Sam (Kaye), who returns "home" to Dogpatch every year to unite the Sadie Hawkins victors and their captives in holy matrimony; and, of course, the devoted Daisy and her reluctant swain, naïve and patriotic Abner (Palmer). Adapted by Melvin Frank (who also directed) and Norman Panama (who produced) from their stage version, it turns upon the efforts of the Dogpatchers to save their town by finding "something valuable"--which seems at first blush to be Mammy's tonic, brewed from the fruits of the world's only Yokumberry tree. This tonic, which makes men youthful and physically perfect, is instantly coveted by the government and General Bullmoose alike--but it has the unfortunate side-effect of making the user completely disinclined to romance, hence Abner's stiff resistance to being "caught" by Daisy Mae, even though he is fond of her. In the end, Daisy is willing to sacrifice herself (as Earthquake's bride) to gain her suitor's help for her beloved Abner, but it's Pappy Yokum who saves the day with shrewd psychology. And Dogpatch is saved too, by a most unexpected revelation.

Casting and makeup are to be commended for creating an assortment of characters that match Capp's vision uncannily (as do Alvin Colt's costumes); I'm always particularly impressed at the size difference between Li'l Abner and his parents. Michael Kidd offers several dance numbers of great verve in "Don't That Take the Rag Offen the Bush," "Jubilation T. Cornpone," and "The Matrimonial Stomp." The cartoonist's satirical tone is echoed in Palmer and Kaye's duet, "The Country's in the Very Best of Hands," and Palmer and Parrish's two numbers, "Namely Me" (a frequent catchphrase from the strip) and "Otherwise," deserve to be better known. The entire movie was, of course, shot on sound stages, but considering its previous incarnation on Broadway that should be little distraction. Its broadly portrayed "hillbillies" and occasional '50's chauvinism are far from politically correct, but it should appeal to kids (who will probably miss the double entendres and the sharp pokes at government, big biz, and the like, and just enjoy the laughs) and adults alike. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A lovely little movie
This movie isn't hilarious, but it is enjoyable and still relevant. Ultimately, the movie strikes a terrific balance--confirming the importance of maintaining a family through tolerant love, while dealing with what could have been a cheaply-treated scandalous secret. Gina Lollobrigida is a woman who has a nearly-adult daughter, but she doesn't know which of 3 WWII American servicemen is the father. She encounters a very "baby-boom"-ish concern--how to encourage upright behavior in her child despite her own suspect past--which is resolved in a satisfying but not simplistic manner. Strong but fallible men, strong but fallible women, and an uplifting ending. Good stuff, well done.

One of the Funniest Ensemble Casts
I discovered this film in the 80's, but remember when it was in the theatres in 1968. The material wasn't suitable for a 10 year old at the time. Still, I watched this film from a poor video taped from TV, and just howled. Phil Silvers plays the perfect schnook being married to Shelley Winters in the film, and being one of the three former "comforting" soldiers who was with lovely Gina Lolabrigida during the war. I don't know if they were nominated, but with their performances, both Lee Grant and Shelley Winters should have had Supporting Actress Oscars. Telly Savalas can get a little obnoxious, but still right for his role. Try this one for some great fun.

Very good
I like all the characters, all the places and Italy. this movie is really must see. And the plot is quite contemporaray after all those years.

Back to the Future
Had not seen this movie since I was 5 in 1971, loved every minute of it. All of the actors are 'playing themselves' great performances by Shelley Winters, Phil Silvers and Telly Savalas.A great classic that does not get much paly on tv or cable, so you have not seen it 20 times. Great look at American perspective on Europe, and how it has not changed much in the 30-odd years since the film was made. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Should Be on DVD (Widescreen)
I remember my Mom taking me to see this movie, I was about 11 year old and I thought this was such a cute, funny movie and there were several scenes that had everyone in the theater lauging out loud. I know the professional critics gave this movie awful reviews when it was released but there sure seemed to be a lot of people in the theater who were really enjoying watching The Duchess and the Dirtwater Fox and I think George Segal was great and so was Goldie Hawn as the ditzy heroine. This is one of the best westerns/comedies I have ever seen and I wish they would put this movie out on DVD (widescreen)

a classic goldie moment
I first saw this film when i was around 7 back in the 80s and i fell in love with it then, nearly 15 years later it is still amazing. Funny, fanastic, one of goldie's best! Shame its not on dvd!!!!
This is a must see for any goldie fan or any comedy fan, easy to get humour, both dirty and clever.
A MUST!!!!!

UNFORGETTABLE
Another of Goldie Hawn's classics! It's the story of a conman and a prostitute thrown together by the hand of fate, and their hilarious partnership. The best scene is where Goldie auditions for the job of governess to a religious family, and she must give a demonstration of her musical skills. The only song that is suitable for the circumstances, is a number she used to perform in the brothel: "Please don't touch my plums" and she does a magnificent job of impressing the pater familias and tickling the viewer's funnybone. The Duchess is a pearl in Goldie's crown.

An Awsome Classic !!!!
This movie is so funny!!! Any one who likes, or loves Goldie will simply LOVE this movie!!! I collect vhs (soon to be dvd) classic movies and this one has been a real bear to get ahold of. Anyway, I love it and I hope someone will read this and get the movie too. I promis they won't be dissapointed. Also, if anyone has ever seen The First Wives Club, they show a "tiny" pic of Goldie in her saloon outfit, next to her phone, and answering machine as "Brenda" is leaving her a message. That was only for the GREAT Goldie fans to notice.

One of best all time comedys
One of the funniest movies I've ever seen. It gets funnier every time that I see it. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Alternate Universe Kansas
This is a hard film to review. It's a pretty good movie, a good western... but as a film about the Jayhawkers in 1850's Kansas it's so wildly inaccurate and far from any resemblance to history that it almost defies belief.

Fess Parker is good as the brooding, undecided not-quite-outlaw, and the rest of the cast is fine as well. The moral ambiguity is well done too. It's just the scenario that's the problem. This stuff just didn't happen, and in places that didn't exist.

They have Fess Parker's character having been settled in Kansas before the Mexican War when Kansas wasn't really opened to settlement until years after. Then they have the army fighting the Jayhawkers for control of the kingdom of Kansas (which has a lot of astonishingly large, well-built towns in it). The Jayhawkers are a para-military band whose raids--in this movie--are entirely in Kansas, against Kansans. Missouri, which was the real target of the real Jayhawkers gets one token mention, then we're back to raids in Kansas. The real Jayhawkers were horsethieves who raided into Missouri, occassionally kidnapping a slave so they could claim to be abolitionists (to be fair, a few were genuine abolitionists). The movie's Jayhawkers wore "Redlegs" leggings but no mention of Jennison is made. There's also not a single African-American in the entire movie though there's a brief mention of--I think they called them--"Missouri Redlegs" killing a lady's husband after asking his opinion of slavery.

It's bizarre. It's like they had the script for a stock western then went through and inserted a few pre-Civil War Kansas-Missouri border war phrases without bothering to find out anything about them. The women's costumes were decidedly not 1850s--looked more like generic 1870's-80's Hollywood western outfits. And the weapons... I'm not an expert on 1850's weapons but it struck me as more than passingly odd that everyone had such very fine repeating rifles. Oh, and a big chunk of the plot relied on the very extensive railroad that existed in this universe's 1850's Kansas.

As a nice old western, this is a fine little adventure movie. The video was crisp and the colors bright. Good action. As an historically based movie... no.

The Jayhawkers an Entertaining Western
This is an odd little Western set in the 1850s, with Jeff Chandler and Fess Parker on opposite sides of the law. Chandler, as Luke Darcy, plays a very noble yet misguided self-appointed leader of a band of outlaws bent on seeing his vision of society's mores come to fruition. Chandler brings integrity and determination to his role. Parker is always good in his homespun way. Henry Silva is also on hand demonstrating his wry presence. The film's greatest asset (and probably why I always liked this film) is its score by Jerome Moross, best known for "The Big Country." If you listen close you can hear strains of his theme for the TV show "Wagon Train." The VHS color print is vivid. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Should've Been on the AFI's list of "Top 100 Romantic Films"
I saw this movie when it first came out in the 70's and have seen it many times on and off for years.

The movie is funny, but what makes it work is the two stars. George Segal (who never looked better) is in fine comedic form, and he and Glenda Jackson complement each other perfectly. She was especially singled out for critical acclaim -- some people compared her to Katharine Hepburn in Hepburn's comedic roles.

The movie also affords a look at London in the early 70's.

Because the actors work so well together, I would've liked a different (happier) ending for the movie. Still, after thirty years, "A Touch of Class" remains very watchable and poignant -- largely because of the two stars.

creepy and disturbing
I did not like this movie. I know that times have changed and it would be revisionist to hold this movie to millennium standards of sexual conduct and infidelity. Nonetheless, I found it very disturbing: his lack of concern for his wife and children, how the wife was unsympathetic and one dimensional, and how absolutely de rigueur it was in the sixties for married men to have "a bit on the side." And what about her kids? apart from the first scene we never see them again; she instead seems to spend all her time cooking and keeping house for a married man. I'm not a prude, really, but this film left a bad taste in my mouth.

One of the funniest, sexiest, smartest movies I've ever seen
...and I'm not easy to please. It's strange when you realize just how sexy George Segal was. But the movie is wonderfully written, sharp, smart and incredibly funny. I saw another reviewer liked The Goodbye Girl better. I prefered this...Sharper, more biting, less sentimental. That doesn't mean it's heartless or even cynical, just that it's lacking in syrup. George Segal and Glenda Jackson have the all the chemistry and the comedic chops (and then some) needed to make this movie work. This movie made me laugh a lot, was sexy enough to warm any cold night and smart enough to make me feel like the people who made it figured I had at least a high school education. How come comedic movies this smart don't get made by the major studios anymore?

A great movie that will one day be remade
Glenda Jackson and George Segal tear up the screen and nearly each other in this frothy 1973 Oscar-winning comedy. The relationship is the key here and the two leads almost define screen chemistry. Shot in London and Malaga, Spain, it's also a fun date film. The DVD transfer is pretty decent considering the age. Whatever your tastes in film, this is a pretty tough one not to like.

With Hollywood remaking classics like "Charade," this one seems a solid bet. Who would they pick today? Oh, probably Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake.

How come it's unavailable???
Extremely funny, light-hearted movie. Whether it was worthy of a best actress oscar is debateable, but nonetheless: HOW CAN AN OSCAR WINNING FILM NOT BE AVAILABLE IN THIS DAY & AGE?????? ... Read more

Description

Mel Edison, a soon-to-be-unemployed advertising executive, is driven to the brink of a nervous breakdown by New York City living.In an attempt to escape from a garbage strike, nosy neighbors and an unreliable air conditioner in the middle of a head wave, Mel and his long-suffering wife Edna visit his brother in the country.Unfortunately, the dark cloud of tribulation seems to follow Mel in this comic nightmare. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Another knockout for Simon/Lemmon
This is the third in a trio of classic comedies written by Neil Simon and starring(onscreen) Jack Lemmon. This movie delivers laugh after laugh without slapsick, and without the cheesiness of some of Simon's later works. (The Goodbye Girl) This movie earns five stars from me not only because it's a great comedy, but this movie gives the viewer a heartfelt lesson in humanity as well. See it at all costs. Worth owning, too, I've all but worn my copy out.

A little but incredible comedy
This movie is among the greatest twenty american comedies in any age.
Lemmon is superb and the lovely Anne Bancroft(Miracle worker) makes a great couple.
It's incredible how this work has been so underestimated.
A must for everyone.
A lot of laughable gags.

Melvin Frank made a masterpiece comedy
It's incredibkle this movie has been so underestimated.
The plot is plenty of laughable situations. A well script and above all the presence of this wonderful couple.
The unique Jack Lemmon and the lovely Anne Bancroft an extraordinary gifted actress. (Miracle worker)
Under no circunstance you should doubt about the virtues of that film, because if you edit the twenty best american comedy films in any age, this film deserves to be in that list.

Surprisingly the plot is so realistically current again
Being a 70s movie, it had a slow start but then as scene rolls in, the story line suddenly sparkles in the dark and jitters through the nurve with uncanny current realities of recent years. Great flowing script and its a privilege to watch two Maestros (Jack Lemmon and Anne Bancroft) playing it out in perfect harmony with perfect tune till the very end! Amazing!

I love this one!
To my way of thinking, this is the highest form of comedy: it is the kind of comedy that makes us laugh and cry at the same time; it is the kind of comedy that captures something about who we are, and presents it in such a forgiving and loving light that we simultaneously laugh and ache. For me, the quintessential example of this is the boxing scene in City Lights, which is as tragic as it is hilarious. "Prisoner of Second Avenue" is, in a sense, an entire play about this boxing scene: it is about the struggle to survive in a cold and almost brutal world. The only difference is that, in the boxing scene, the hero chooses to take a beating in order to save someone else, while here the two heroes struggle to survive as a team. In the final scene, we know that this team has won, not because a new job has been located, but because this team will prevail. What a wonderful homage to the strength of the human spirit! Couple this with the exceptional (as always) performances of two great actors: Anne Bancroft and Jack Lemon, and you have what I think is a true gem.

By the way...it's time to bring this in DVD! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

deservedly obscure
Vulgar and witless, this movie may be a primary reason that neither George nor Glenda has an acting career anymore. L&F felt dated and empty in '79; the passage of time ain't helped. If you have any taste at all, you will HATE this movie!!! So they get to dance with their legs in casts --well, la-de-da!

wonderful movie
Lost and Found is a great movie starring the great Glenda Jackson and George Segal. I rememeber seeing this film when it first came out. It is an enduring film and you will love the love story of these two complete opposites. Glenda brings to the screen a touch of class if you will and George adds a touch of spice to their roles. Great film. Hope it comes on dvd someday.

Fantastic Romantic Comedy
Lost and Found is the second movie to star Glenda Jackson and George Segal together. The chemistry between these two actors is what makes this movie great. I hope they release this film on DVD soon. The story is somewhat believable and very high brow about the loss of love ones and the pain of getting over former loves. Glenda and George have the greatest chemistry that makes this film work. Of course not to mention the great Maureen Stapleton as George's overbearing Mother. ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Charming and Hilarious Re-telling of the Robin Hood Story
I am not a great Danny Kaye fan, but this movie is one the the very funniest I've ever seen. Everything about it is excellent, from the production values to the songs & lyrics, from the fine quality of actors to the charm and wit of the dialogue and the story. There is literally nothing wrong with this movie. It is fit for all audiences, from the youngest to the oldest members of your family. I remember the first time I saw it, being struck by the fact that all the actors seemed to be having an absolutely marvellous time. Particularly during the Jester's first call at entertaining the court...unforgettable and sheer delight. Every single person on camera looked like they were having a wonderful time just being there. I hadn't seen anything like such a fine emsemble cast since 'All About Eve.' I think it must have been because there were no bad lines, no bad parts, no scenes that didn't work, and everyone had a chance to shine. Having a good material to work with really does make a world of difference. Stars Danny Kaye, Angela Landsbury, Basil Rathbone, and a host of marvellous British actors whose names are right now escaping my memory. Buy it. Keep it. Enjoy it for years.

The Brew that is True...
If one is tired of baudy bathroom humor of the typical comedies one finds today, perhaps "The Court Jester" will satisfy your comical thirst. Set in England during the time of chivalry and knighthood this musical comedy stars Danny Kaye as a ne'er do well circus performer who ends up out"fox"ing the dastardly villains, getting the girl and saving the real king's butt (so to speak). Glynis Johns plays Maid Jean whose stunning beauty and big eyes just make you melt (wow, I wish I'd been born earlier). Basil Rathbone is his typical bad self as the evil Ravenhurst playing it to the hilt! This film pulls out all the comical stops from tongue twisters to hypnosis, magnetism and even a Zorro sword play spoof with Rathbone! This is Danny Kaye's finest and funniest comedy! A must see movie!

Comedy Could Not Better Be!
In the history of the movies, fewer things are more amusing than watching Danny Kaye behave as Danny Kaye. Watching his films was a wonderful part of my childhood,and I remember being at home from High School on the day of his passing. I'm very glad for the legacy he has left us to enjoy.
In "The Court Jester" he couldn't be more in his element as he amuses us with his usual patter numbers clever, tounge-twisting lyrics and sword play, and moves us with his loving care of the orphaned infant heir to the English throne. The scene of his lullabying the baby was shown as a tribute to him at the end of "Entertainment Tonight" the weekend after his death and it was a fitting tribute to him, his love of children, and the childlike sense of wonder he brought to all of his films.
As Kaye's love interest, Jean, a charismatic Glynis Johns is highly complimentary.She is not the sterotypical woman of medeival times, but having been raised as a boy, has a lot of cunning, ingenuity, and an occassional bit of brawn as the leader of those in rebellion against Cecil Parker's evil King.
Angela Lansbury's Princess Gwendolyn longs for true love rather than an arranged marriage. She is firm and decisive in many ways, as she helps bring the tale to a positive conclusion.
As the sourceress, Mildred Natwick leads into some of the film's funniest scenes, including the notorious "Pellet with the poison is in the vessel with the pestle" routine that has become a classic.
Hubert Hawkins' cleverness in seizing the real Court Jester,(John Carradine, a man whom I could never really think of as funny) who was very arrogant, disguising himself in his clothes, and using his tounge-twisting dialogue with the King to cover his tracks is also a riot.
Basil Rathbone as the evil henchmen is a refined villian. It's amusing the way Kaye kept pushing his name out of the way during the opening credits, and I have wondered how often Hawkins' accelerated knighthood ceremony had to be rehearsed before those on the set could stop laughing.

Although the film overlooks the fact that a person can't be hypnotized against their will, the way Hubert Hawkins is, the comedy is generally light, and goofy, doesen't get any saucier than the exposure of an infant's backside, and children will love it.
And as Hawkins reassures us at the beginning,"What starts like a scary tale ends like a fairy tale, and life couldn't possibly better be!"

So funny your cheeks will ache from laughing!!
This is one of Danny Kaye's best. He was so talented and his comic timing is impeccable. The "chalice from the palace" scene is so funny that I have not forgotten it over the years. This movie will get you out of the blues in no time.

You will go and buy this movie and do it like that (snap)!
This is my favorite movie of all time. When I was a kid Danny Kaye movies played every Sunday morning and we would wait the few months until it came around again.

I have never stopped laughing at the scenes, the funny interplay between Danny Kaye and the court and his continual buffonery.

Even kids will love this movie. It starts with a dance routine which is almost like Robin Hood Men in Tights. That is quaint, yet the next scene will take you in and take you on the funniest rides of all time.

Kaye, disquised as an old man who is hard of hearing having a scream fest with the captain of the guard. This few minutes is one of the funniest scenes I have ever witnessed. Then there are just funny scenes that will make you split your sides with laughter from there on out.

The wit it took to bring together this cast and the concept of the movie seems that it will never be outdated.

What Danny Kaye and the rest do here is ascend age and time making this movie appeal to any age group, young or old. I have seen a young family start off thinking this was a silly movie then, taken by the first comedic interaction, launch into continuous laughter. I laugh getting a kick out of watching everyone else laugh too.

This movie is a must for any DVD or VHS library. Share it with your friends, watch it when you are a little too stressed out to do anything else to lighten up your day.

The plays on words, the different fast paced situational scenes that will have you thinking; 'how clever...,' even when you think that Hawkins/Giacommo is at his end, then it gets even funnier. The Chalis with the poisly has the pellet with the pesly......

This movie is so fast paced that you cannot believe you have sat there and laughed for the better part of 90 minutes. The great thing about the DVD, you do not have to worry about watching this over and over again and wearing it out.

This movie has great color and scenery. The imagery is wonderful. You wonder if they really were in a castle.

Laugh and love this movie......I recommend it for school, church and family activities. It is a classic that may become more well known with time. ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Charming and Hilarious Re-telling of the Robin Hood Story
I am not a great Danny Kaye fan, but this movie is one the the very funniest I've ever seen. Everything about it is excellent, from the production values to the songs & lyrics, from the fine quality of actors to the charm and wit of the dialogue and the story. There is literally nothing wrong with this movie. It is fit for all audiences, from the youngest to the oldest members of your family. I remember the first time I saw it, being struck by the fact that all the actors seemed to be having an absolutely marvellous time. Particularly during the Jester's first call at entertaining the court...unforgettable and sheer delight. Every single person on camera looked like they were having a wonderful time just being there. I hadn't seen anything like such a fine emsemble cast since 'All About Eve.' I think it must have been because there were no bad lines, no bad parts, no scenes that didn't work, and everyone had a chance to shine. Having a good material to work with really does make a world of difference. Stars Danny Kaye, Angela Landsbury, Basil Rathbone, and a host of marvellous British actors whose names are right now escaping my memory. Buy it. Keep it. Enjoy it for years.

The Brew that is True...
If one is tired of baudy bathroom humor of the typical comedies one finds today, perhaps "The Court Jester" will satisfy your comical thirst. Set in England during the time of chivalry and knighthood this musical comedy stars Danny Kaye as a ne'er do well circus performer who ends up out"fox"ing the dastardly villains, getting the girl and saving the real king's butt (so to speak). Glynis Johns plays Maid Jean whose stunning beauty and big eyes just make you melt (wow, I wish I'd been born earlier). Basil Rathbone is his typical bad self as the evil Ravenhurst playing it to the hilt! This film pulls out all the comical stops from tongue twisters to hypnosis, magnetism and even a Zorro sword play spoof with Rathbone! This is Danny Kaye's finest and funniest comedy! A must see movie!

Comedy Could Not Better Be!
In the history of the movies, fewer things are more amusing than watching Danny Kaye behave as Danny Kaye. Watching his films was a wonderful part of my childhood,and I remember being at home from High School on the day of his passing. I'm very glad for the legacy he has left us to enjoy.
In "The Court Jester" he couldn't be more in his element as he amuses us with his usual patter numbers clever, tounge-twisting lyrics and sword play, and moves us with his loving care of the orphaned infant heir to the English throne. The scene of his lullabying the baby was shown as a tribute to him at the end of "Entertainment Tonight" the weekend after his death and it was a fitting tribute to him, his love of children, and the childlike sense of wonder he brought to all of his films.
As Kaye's love interest, Jean, a charismatic Glynis Johns is highly complimentary.She is not the sterotypical woman of medeival times, but having been raised as a boy, has a lot of cunning, ingenuity, and an occassional bit of brawn as the leader of those in rebellion against Cecil Parker's evil King.
Angela Lansbury's Princess Gwendolyn longs for true love rather than an arranged marriage. She is firm and decisive in many ways, as she helps bring the tale to a positive conclusion.
As the sourceress, Mildred Natwick leads into some of the film's funniest scenes, including the notorious "Pellet with the poison is in the vessel with the pestle" routine that has become a classic.
Hubert Hawkins' cleverness in seizing the real Court Jester,(John Carradine, a man whom I could never really think of as funny) who was very arrogant, disguising himself in his clothes, and using his tounge-twisting dialogue with the King to cover his tracks is also a riot.
Basil Rathbone as the evil henchmen is a refined villian. It's amusing the way Kaye kept pushing his name out of the way during the opening credits, and I have wondered how often Hawkins' accelerated knighthood ceremony had to be rehearsed before those on the set could stop laughing.

Although the film overlooks the fact that a person can't be hypnotized against their will, the way Hubert Hawkins is, the comedy is generally light, and goofy, doesen't get any saucier than the exposure of an infant's backside, and children will love it.
And as Hawkins reassures us at the beginning,"What starts like a scary tale ends like a fairy tale, and life couldn't possibly better be!"

So funny your cheeks will ache from laughing!!
This is one of Danny Kaye's best. He was so talented and his comic timing is impeccable. The "chalice from the palace" scene is so funny that I have not forgotten it over the years. This movie will get you out of the blues in no time.

You will go and buy this movie and do it like that (snap)!
This is my favorite movie of all time. When I was a kid Danny Kaye movies played every Sunday morning and we would wait the few months until it came around again.

I have never stopped laughing at the scenes, the funny interplay between Danny Kaye and the court and his continual buffonery.

Even kids will love this movie. It starts with a dance routine which is almost like Robin Hood Men in Tights. That is quaint, yet the next scene will take you in and take you on the funniest rides of all time.

Kaye, disquised as an old man who is hard of hearing having a scream fest with the captain of the guard. This few minutes is one of the funniest scenes I have ever witnessed. Then there are just funny scenes that will make you split your sides with laughter from there on out.

The wit it took to bring together this cast and the concept of the movie seems that it will never be outdated.

What Danny Kaye and the rest do here is ascend age and time making this movie appeal to any age group, young or old. I have seen a young family start off thinking this was a silly movie then, taken by the first comedic interaction, launch into continuous laughter. I laugh getting a kick out of watching everyone else laugh too.

This movie is a must for any DVD or VHS library. Share it with your friends, watch it when you are a little too stressed out to do anything else to lighten up your day.

The plays on words, the different fast paced situational scenes that will have you thinking; 'how clever...,' even when you think that Hawkins/Giacommo is at his end, then it gets even funnier. The Chalis with the poisly has the pellet with the pesly......

This movie is so fast paced that you cannot believe you have sat there and laughed for the better part of 90 minutes. The great thing about the DVD, you do not have to worry about watching this over and over again and wearing it out.

This movie has great color and scenery. The imagery is wonderful. You wonder if they really were in a castle.

Laugh and love this movie......I recommend it for school, church and family activities. It is a classic that may become more well known with time. ... Read more