Reviews (71)

Finally An Affair To Remember is on DVD
In April of this year I bought this DVD. I love it so much. I remember when I was little and saw it . It brought tears to my eyes. I especially love the special features that are on this DVD. I have always loved The Extremely hansome an Debonair Cary Grant. He is a role model of what Male Actors Should Be.

Cary Grant, and Deborah Kerr meet on a Ocean Cruise well they meet and they fall in love. But one problem They are both already engaged to different people. Well as the Ocean Voyage goes on they get more and more romantic. Well when they get off the boat they make an agreement that 6 Months from that day they would meet at the top of the Empire State Building to see if they still love each other. Well that day comes and Cary Grant is on the top floor. But as Deborah Kerr is running to the Empire State Building she gets ran into by a car and is paralyzed. But at the end Cary Grant finds her and they Kiss and Get Married. Great Movie. The way that all movies are supposed to be.

Better than I anticipated....
"An Affair to Remember" with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr has a lot to offer. I was skeptical when my wife brought this video home for "us" to watch, but I decided to give it an honest try. Once the movie got underway, and the character development started to take place, I became interested. There was more to Grant than a womanizing cad (thought it took a while for him to shake that image in the movie), and Kerr came across as a world-wise, yet innocent (in a sense), former night club singer.

While they are both committed to other people, Grant and Kerr meet and fall in love on a ship cruising from Europe to America.

Some of the dialogue and situations appear to be somewhat contrived, but the acting and story line development stirs true emotion.

This is probably not a movie for the bump and grind Monday Night Football crowd, but it is both watchable and enjoyable. Maybe I was primed to watch it by seeing "Sleepless in Seattle" recently, a movie that my wife and I both enjoy.

Anyway, give this movie a chance...it's somewhat dated, but it's still got something to offer.

Overrated Tearjerker
The first part aboard the boat seems convenient & affected. The bit where she takes him to meet her relative is charming and pretty but pointless. The accident and her subsequent behavior bespeaks of underlying insecurities and purhaps subconcious concerns about his character. I didn't feel particularly sympathetic toward either character and, thus, the reunion doesn't touch me.

One of my favourite movies
While I haven't seen the remake of this film, I have seen the original, and this is by far one of my favourite movies ever. The picture is beautiful, the casting is flawless, and the story timeless. I would recommend this for chick-flick lovers and even those who aren't particularly fond of romantic-comedies.

Practically nobody, huh?
Amazon says "practically nobody" likes the 1994 remake with Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, but actually I would prefer that one to this any day. However, if you have to see the original, amazon is where to get it. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Get out your handkerchiefs for this four-star weepie, a 1957 remake of the 1939 Love Affair, directed by Leo McCarey, who also made the original. Grant and Kerr are strangers on an ocean liner, involved with other people, but who can't resist each other for a shipboard romance. They decide to test whether this is the real thing by agreeing to split up, then meet in six months atop the Empire State Building. Is there anyone who can resist that setup or the tragic romantic mishap that nearly splits them up? Can you keep dry eyes during the famous finale? Some prefer the original (with Charles Boyer); practically no one liked the underrated 1994 remake with Warren Beatty and Annette Bening. While occasionally a shade slow, this one soars on Grant's charm and Kerr's noble suffering. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (71)

Finally An Affair To Remember is on DVD
In April of this year I bought this DVD. I love it so much. I remember when I was little and saw it . It brought tears to my eyes. I especially love the special features that are on this DVD. I have always loved The Extremely hansome an Debonair Cary Grant. He is a role model of what Male Actors Should Be.

Cary Grant, and Deborah Kerr meet on a Ocean Cruise well they meet and they fall in love. But one problem They are both already engaged to different people. Well as the Ocean Voyage goes on they get more and more romantic. Well when they get off the boat they make an agreement that 6 Months from that day they would meet at the top of the Empire State Building to see if they still love each other. Well that day comes and Cary Grant is on the top floor. But as Deborah Kerr is running to the Empire State Building she gets ran into by a car and is paralyzed. But at the end Cary Grant finds her and they Kiss and Get Married. Great Movie. The way that all movies are supposed to be.

Better than I anticipated....
"An Affair to Remember" with Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr has a lot to offer. I was skeptical when my wife brought this video home for "us" to watch, but I decided to give it an honest try. Once the movie got underway, and the character development started to take place, I became interested. There was more to Grant than a womanizing cad (thought it took a while for him to shake that image in the movie), and Kerr came across as a world-wise, yet innocent (in a sense), former night club singer.

While they are both committed to other people, Grant and Kerr meet and fall in love on a ship cruising from Europe to America.

Some of the dialogue and situations appear to be somewhat contrived, but the acting and story line development stirs true emotion.

This is probably not a movie for the bump and grind Monday Night Football crowd, but it is both watchable and enjoyable. Maybe I was primed to watch it by seeing "Sleepless in Seattle" recently, a movie that my wife and I both enjoy.

Anyway, give this movie a chance...it's somewhat dated, but it's still got something to offer.

Overrated Tearjerker
The first part aboard the boat seems convenient & affected. The bit where she takes him to meet her relative is charming and pretty but pointless. The accident and her subsequent behavior bespeaks of underlying insecurities and purhaps subconcious concerns about his character. I didn't feel particularly sympathetic toward either character and, thus, the reunion doesn't touch me.

One of my favourite movies
While I haven't seen the remake of this film, I have seen the original, and this is by far one of my favourite movies ever. The picture is beautiful, the casting is flawless, and the story timeless. I would recommend this for chick-flick lovers and even those who aren't particularly fond of romantic-comedies.

Practically nobody, huh?
Amazon says "practically nobody" likes the 1994 remake with Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, but actually I would prefer that one to this any day. However, if you have to see the original, amazon is where to get it. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

This irresistible Oscar winner from writer-director Leo McCarey (An Affair to Remember) stars Bing Crosby as a low-key, crooning priest who joins the parish of a no-nonsense but sweet old Irish man of the cloth (Barry Fitzgerald). While Bing turns local toughs into a choir, the elder priest worries over the church building fund and whether he'll get a chance to see his old mother back in Ireland before she dies. One would have to have a heart of stone not to be won over by this charmer, with a lovely ending guaranteed to make you bawl for a week. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Bing Crosby helps a Catholic church and the older priest.
Paramount Pictures. Bing Crosby plays "Father O'Malley who has been sent to the Church of Saint Dominic to assist with the older priest Father Fitzgibbon (dearly played by 5 foot 3, born in Ireland, actor Barry Fitzgerald) who has been there for 45 years. Young Father O'Malley is in charge of straightening out Saint Dominic since it is in the worse way without hurting the feelings of the old priest. However, with the Bishop's understanding, Father Fitzgibbon is to stay there as the Pastor. Father Timothy O'Dowd (Frank McHugh) of the nearby Saint Frances, drops by to offer support to his St. Louis childhood friend. O'Malley is able to take care of the church mortgage, get the boys interested in baseball and begin a boys chior with Carl Switzer ("Alfalfa" of Little Rascals/Our Gang) and O'Malley plays golf too. Won Academy Award for Best Picture, Both Bing Crosby and Barry Fitzgerald won their own Academy Award and the new song "Swinging On A Star" also was a winner. "Silent Night" and "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo" are also sung. William Frawley has a good role (nearly eight years before he did the "I Love Lucy" tv series). April 27, 2004 marks the 60th Anniversary of this fine film. Followed the next year by the sequel: THE BELLS OF ST. MARY'S (1945).

This great enduring film is my favorite.
I cannot image anyone else portraying Father O'malley except Bing Crosby, but a great mistake almost occured. Pat O'Brien was almost given the part, because of his performance in Angels with Dirty Faces as Father Jerry Connelly. The studio executives felt that the public would not except Bing Crosby (legendary crooner) as a preist, and they took a chance and the rest is history. The film won academy awards for best picture, best actor and other awards too. The film is about a priest who helps people any way he can. "Would you like to swing on a star" is the title song in the movie, which he sings along with the Dead End Kid's. His unmistakeable voice and his demeanor captivates me everytime I see this film. Father O'Malley is the type of person I strive to be like and I wish more people would do the same. He is content with who he is and looks for the good in everyone. The final scene where Father O'Malley walks away from the church in quiet dignity, without the need to be thanked epitomized the type of person he was, a great human being. I was so touched by that gesture and by Fitzpatrick's performance I cried. It is a beautiful ending to a great film.

Vintage Crosby
At the height of his wartime fame, Bing Crosby plays a hip young Catholic priest who arrives to help a troubled parish struggle back to its feet. Of course, what passed for young and hip back then, in this lily white, family-friendly comedy-drama may seem pretty silly these days -- Bing is convincing, though, as he use his suave social skills to listen to and help out those in need. Veteran scene-stealer Barry Fitzgerald plays the doddering, crusty old Irish priest who runs the church before Crosby's arrival... The rest of the supporting cast isn't as strong, but the film still has its charms. Mostly it's just a great chance to observe Crosby at his most magnetic and self-assured. The film also previewed hits like "Swinging On A Star" and Bing's version of "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ra," both of which are longtime favorites.

a great film! very inspiring.
I think this desrves all the stars it can get and is very wonderful!

A Great film!
This is a must see film It's uplifting good, and fun to watch. All of the songs Bing Crosby sings are lovley. Rese Stevens rendition of Ave Maria, is very beautiful. Bing is great as a priest and plays the role so convincingly. If you buy this movie you wont be sorry. You will be in for a real treat. They don't make films like this anymore. It's a classic! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A great, boisterous comedy
Charles Laughton is magnificent in this priceless comedic role as a proper English butler who is won over by the egalitarianism and joyfulness of American life. The actor's subtlety and reserve, and flawless comic timing make this one a winner. Yay, Charles Laughton!

improbably profound
On first viewing this seems an unlikely choice for a conservative film list. Charles Laughton plays Marmaduke Ruggles, a proper British butler
whose dipsomaniacal master (Roland Young) loses him in a Paris poker game to a couple of social-climbing American rubes, Effie and Egbert
Floud. Mrs. Floud expects Ruggles to instruct her husband in proper manners and appropriate dress, but Mr. Floud sees him mostly as a partner in
crime, insisting that Ruggles sit and drink with him. For whatever reason, Laughton plays Ruggles with a kind of bug-eyed vacancy, staring off at
some point in space, perhaps to convey the sense that as a manservant he's not entitled to look anyone in the eyes, as if he were their equal. But
when the three travel back to Red Gap, Washington, Ruggles is greeted by the locals with democratic bonhomie and soon begins to think about
leaving service. Predictable zaniness and madcappery follow before Ruggles proves himself a worthy American and the equal of any man.

This is all handled with the typical, sometimes delightful, gusto of Hollywood's Golden Age but hardly seems remarkable. Then comes a scene that
is so absurdly moving that it's nearly embarrassing. Sitting around the local saloon, Mr. Floud, his mother, and the other patrons try remembering the
words of the Gettysburg Address but are unable to do so. Then, quietly at first, but with mounting intensity, as all attention focuses on him, Ruggles
recites the speech from memory to a hushed and obviously transported room. Laughton imbues Lincoln's words with such feeling and such hope that
it's like hearing them for the first time. The realization that this menial, who has only arrived in America by sheerest chance, has been nurturing a
quintessentially American dream of freedom is improbably but profoundly touching and elevates a pretty good film into a classic.

GRADE : A

One of my all time favorites
Ruggles Of Red Gap is a film I have seen many times and look forward to viewing again many more. It really holds up to the passing years. In its own way it is the most patriotic of movies -- much more than Sands of Iwo Jima, etc. Ruggles undergoes a slow transformation from servant-class Brit, fearful of his new life "in a land of slavery" to an American enteprenuer, running the "Anglo-American Grill" in the boomtown he is taken to. In the process he discovers confidence, egalitarianism, and a bit of working class romance. A lovely comedy of manners, poking fun at class pretensions among the newly-rich and the enui of the upper crust.

Laughton is delightful in a multi-layered characterization of a stone-faced gentleman's gentleman with a secret inner life that just begins to emerge with the encouragement of his new American friends. His quiet recitation of the Gettysburg Address is a truly magic moment in the history of American cinema.

There is so much more to this film than the average 1930's comedy. It has its screwball element, yes, but there is a real heart to it. The dialogue is tops -- so many memorable lines -- and the acting is as good as it gets.

If this film isn't a classic, nothing is.

Charles Laughton is Fabulous as RUGGLES OF RED GAP
Whether you are a fan of Laughton's or not is of no consequence--you will enjoy RUGGLES OF RED GAP. His transformation from subservient valet to independent man is as engrossing and entertaining as it gets. I admit, I wasn't too sure I could imagine him in a comedic role, but he plays Ruggles superbly! His supporting cast shines as he does: Mary Boland, Zasu Pitts, and Charles Ruggles are terrific! The way Ruggles recites the Gettysberg Address at the end of the movie is unforgetable, and when all the patrons of his diner begin to sing "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow," and tears fill up in his eyes, well...it just doesn't get any better than this! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Mary Boland at Her Best; Most Gifted Comedienne of All
This film has about the best ever cast of character actors in a single film, topped by the fabulous Mary Boland, probably the most gifted comedienne of alltime ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great movie!
"Good Sam" is a really greatmovie to watch because of themoral lesson that one can learn when you are a "good sam(aritan)" like Gary Cooperin the movie. It's a must see! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

After watching director Leo McCarey's 1945, black-and-white ode to sentimentality, it's intriguing to note how everything old becomes new again. As evidenced by 1998 box-office fare such as Stepmom and One True Thing, the "disease of the week" mentality has been tugging at filmgoers' hearts for decades. The Bells of St. Mary's is the "sequel" to McCarey's Oscar-winning Going My Way, for which star Bing Crosby incredulously took home a Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the paternal priest, Father O'Malley. But in The Bells of St. Mary's, Crosby's undernourished, laconic technique barely registers against the luminous, playful gravity of Ingrid Bergman, who embodies the heart of a faith-abiding but forward-thinking nun named Sister Benedict. O'Malley is transferred to her poverty-stricken school, and the two square off, ultimately forming a respect and liking for each other despite the fact that the good Sister has taken ill with tuberculosis and Father O'Malley must send her away from her beloved parish to save her life. Sure, The Bells of St. Mary's feels outdated and even trivial in light of the successors to its throne, but it's still a contender. McCarey had the touch for striking a chord that hearkens back to everything we didn't get as kids. He fills a need, as it were, with his ability to reveal our human frailties. Too, he's got Ingrid Bergman, who makes us fondly remember every teacher who lovingly and patiently made a difference in our lives. The Bells of St. Mary's recalls better days and romanticizes a gentler way of being, as suggested when Sister Benedict, after overhearing Father O'Malley remark that sometimes a man must fight his way through life, offers simply in response, "Why not make him think his way through instead?" --Paula Nechak ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Bing's Tones, Ingrid's Charms,Remastered on DVD....Heavenly!
This review refers to the Silver Screen Classics Edition(Republic Pictures)DVD.......

A beautiful sequel to "Going My Way", is now a beautifully transfered to DVD. "The Bells of St.Mary's" is funny, poignant and will tug at your heartstrings.Father O'Malley(Bing Crosby) has now been assigned to a parochial school that is in dire need of repairs. The school has no money and O'Malley's job is to assess the possibilites, of perhaps sending the children to another school.He meets with some tough oppostion though, in the form of one Sister Benedict(Ingrid Bergman). She is the no nonsense type,and right away the two have some very different ideas on what's good for the kids.There is also the problem of a businesman(Henry Travers) who wants the building condemned so he can put up a parking lot for his own employees.Sister Benedict prays for miracle, will she get it?

The story and Ingrid Bergman are charming and delightful and will have you praying with her for that miracle.Bing's beautiful voice graces the film with song and Henry Travers(It's A Wonderful Life) is wonderful as always. It's not too often a sequel equals the original, but with the addition of Bergman, (along with some really adorable kids)and under the direction of Leo McCarey once again, this heartwarming story has accomplished that.

This Silver Screens Classic DVD has done a really nice job with the remastering of this Black and White Classic.The film made in 1945 barely shows it's age. It is a nice clear picture, and the Dolby Digital Sound is good as well. It contains the original Theatrical Trailer, Has French and Spanish language tracks as well as subtitles, and has captioning in English.It also comes with a little brochure with some facts about the filming.If your looking for some great old classics that look great on DVD to add to your collection, this would be a good one.

Happy Viewing......Laurie

ESSENTIAL in ANY collection
The first time I saw Leo McCarey's THE BELLS OF ST MARY'S was on Christmas Day of 2002 when it aired on TCM. I was blown away from the moment the Main Title rolled across the screen. I've always been a sucker for sentimental movies of the 40s (like MGM's MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS and IN THE GOOD OLD SUMMERTIME, both Judy Garland vehicles... btw, both have recently received beautiful DVD transfers; check them out), and ST MARY'S fits the bill to the "t". I picked up a copy of the DVD this past holiday season. I've seen the movie complete a number of times and never tire of watching it. This is the epitome of 40's motion picture entertainment.

An excellent cast turn in very praiseworthy performances. Bing Crosby is Father O'Malley. Crosby is the only actor ever to have been nominated for a Best Actor Oscar twice for the same role, having also played Father O'Malley in GOING MY WAY the previous year. Ingrid Bergman plays Sister Benedict, the Sister Superior of St. Mary's. Mr. Bogardus is played by Henry Travers... more famliarly known as Clarence from IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE.

The film earned eight Oscar nominations and won for Best Sound Recording.
Nominated for...
Best Actor (Crosby)
Best Acress (Bergman)
Direction (Leo McCarey)
Editing
Score of a dramatic/comedy picture (Robert Emmett Dolan)
Song (Aren't You Glad You're You)
Sound Recording
Best Picture

It's a shame ST MARY'S didn't walk away with more Oscars, this truly is a beautiful film and is necessary in any collection. Good for watching anytime, especailly when your spirit needs a lift.

The DVD transfer is outstanding. Picture is stable and clear throughout. Sound is crisp, with little distortion whatsoever. There is a theatrical trailer included, but no other extras. My only complaint about the DVD transfer... what is up with the gray bar at the bottom of the screen that appears at about the 2nd or 3rd page of the Main Title? It looks like it was digitally superimposed over the film to cover something up, but what and why?

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED in any collection. A classic.

Bells of St Mary's Beware
If you buy this DVD expecting it to be the video on disc, you will be quite disappointed. Within the first five minutes you'll discover that a scene has been cut. I purchased this version as part of transitioning our holiday film collection to disc from video and I'm quite disappointed.

Bing Crosby helps an order of nuns at St. Mary's.
Bing Crosby continues his tour-de-force in this sequel to the film, Going My Way (1944). This time Father O'Malley must help the nuns at St. Mary's. Father Fogerty has been sent to the rest home, so O'Malley will be taking his place as the Pastor. Although he does get upstaged by a kitten or two, now and then. Sister Superior, Sister Mary Benedict (Ingrid Bergman) will use him as an educator. The children use to have a playground across the way, but the church needed to sell the ground to fix the church before it could be condemned. With the money, they reinforced the foundation, put in a new sprinkler system and fire escapes. Now a construction company is building a grand building right in front of them. Meanwhile St. Mary's is still in the worst way. The roof is being repaired, but there is still overcrowding. Sister Superior has a prayer, that the big new building will be given to them. She prays that one day, the owner of the new building, Mr. Bogardus (Henry Travers) would wake up one morning and just "give" them the building. A new St. Mary's church would have been on this site, but they sold the land, so seeing a building there tugs at their heart. With the nun's prayers and the help of Father O'Malley, maybe faith can move a mountain. On VHS, available in original black & white or the computer-colored version. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Actor--Bing Crosby, Best Actress--Ingrid bergman, Best Dircetor, Best Song--"Aren't You Gald You're You", Best Scoring and Best Flm Editing. But only Sound Recording won the Academy Award. Trivia Note: In the "Pledge Of Allegiance", the children say, "...to the republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible..." If you notice, the words, "under God" was not said. "under God" was not added until 1954 by act of Congress.

The Disclaimer
Your disclaimer clauses need to contain the following information for all items: "Although an item on our web site shows it is available "On-the-Shelf", it in fact may not be. We are not sure what we have available when you order an item and we are making our best guess. So it may actually take 2-weeks for us to get the item. We are sorry for any inconvenience." ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

One of the top five screwball comedies of the '30s, this helped to cement a genre that waxed golden until the end of WWII. Director Leo McCarey won an Oscar for Best Director for this 1937 romantic comedy--one of the most successful films of his career. Irene Dunne and Cary Grant are a squabbling couple who separate because of supposed infidelities on both sides. They part but cannot really keep away from each other. Grant finds himself hooked up with a socialite, Dunne becomes engaged to a millionaire hick played by the hapless Ralph Bellamy (as if he ever stood a chance as the "other" man!). When not dating others or baiting one another in a verbal war, Grant and Dunne wage a custody battle over their pathetic pooch. Gags, double entendre, witty remarks, snide comments, and fast-paced dialogue helped this to garner six Academy Award nominations. The Awful Truth was awfully good to Dunne and Grant, as both were breaking out of much more serious molds and this secured their positions. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (45)

A Screwball Gem
Arguably the greatest of the screwball comedies, The Awful Truth presents Irene Dunne and Cary Grant as soon-to-be-divorced wife and husband who occupy themselves with spoiling each other's prospective new romances. This is my favorite Dunne performance, probably one of Grant's top three comic performances, and the best Leo McCarey picture. This is also the film that first introduced Ralph Bellamy as the other man who always loses out in love (see His Girl Friday for a reprise). The film is chock-full of great comic scenes: my favorites are Grant, Dunne, and Bellamy watching the awful (and risque) performance of Grant's showgirl girlfriend; Grant making Dunne laugh at Bellamy's love poetry; Dunne trying to figure out how to hide another man's hat from Grant; and Dunne's pretense of being Grant's sister (doing the same number the showgirl did earlier). The film ranges from the broad slapstick of Grant becoming entangled in a chair to the subtle expressions of the threesome watching the floor show. What makes the film particularly work are the attractive performances by Grant and Dunne, who engage in skull-duggery to break up each other's love affairs, but who remain likable--partly because underneath the antics, The Awful Truth remains a love story. Even when bickering, Grant and Dunne clearly love each other; they seem to spur each other, make each other more attractive when together. Even Dunne's throw-away line on not having won any dance cups with

Grant has a sweet, nostalgic, longing tone. Grant has a comic sweetness in the final sequence, befuddled as he tries to resist his desire to return to his wife's bed. The film won Best Director for McCarey, who keeps the film on a delightfully fizzy keel and who encouraged his performers to be spontaneous. Dunne inexplicably lost Best Actress to Luise Rainer for The Good Earth; maybe she should have lost it to Garbo for Camille, but not to Rainer. And this is probably the first of the many years in which Grant gave a great comic performance, only to be forgotten when the Oscar nominations were announced. Sure Grant was always identifiable as himself in comedy-after-comedy, but notice the difference between his performance here and the following year's Holiday, and you can better measure his genuine versatility.

Poignant screwballs.
Why is it that best "screwball" comedies are rarely "screwy"? *The Awful Truth* relies more on character and witty conversation than it does on slapstick (of which, in fact, there's remarkably little). The movie's about a pair of bored New York elites (Cary Grant and Irene Dunne) with an open marriage who decide to give divorce a chance after one mutual infidelity too many. Dunne's very sincere in her protestations to Grant that nothing happened between her and her musician friend, but we remain unconvinced. Grant, meanwhile, tells his wife that he's going to vacation in Florida, but instead stays in town somewhere else in order to better pursue extramarital opportunities. (How did all this get past the Hays Office?!) While they wait for their divorce papers, each partner tries on different hats: Dunne attempts to amuse herself with a vacationing Oklahoma tycoon (poor Ralph Bellamy in another third-wheel role); Grant has perhaps a better time of it with an unimaginably wealthy heiress. It requires their pet dog, Mr. Smith, to bring these lechers back together. It is to be hoped that they can finally expend their lechery on each other -- the movie's last sequence in the honeymooner's cabin, one of the great romantic sequences in all of film, seems to indicate that this will be so. *The Awful Truth* belongs in any serious film-lover's library.

Sheer Entertainment
One of several tremendously fun screwball comedies Grant made in the relatively early part of his career. In actuality, he had already been in nearly 30 movies before he made this one. In 1932, his debut year, he was in seven movies. He was in six in '33 and so on. I guess the idea was to be in as many movies as possible in hopes something would get noticed. Also, under the studio system, inexperienced or not particularly in demand actors were at the studio's mercy and the studio could work them to death if they felt like it. Only fame gave an actor enough power to call his own shots. That Grant was paired with Dunne is a happy coincidence. Their timing and chemistry are perfect. Talent makes all the difference. Dunne was more famous and accomplished at the time. She had already been nominated for an Academy Award for Cimarron. Grant was still perfecting his witty, offhand, debonair and slightly amoral screen persona. He had been in She Done Him Wrong w/ Mae West and that got him on the map but the late 30's were his breakout period with Topper and The Awful Truth.

Decent movie, Bad release.
Cary Grant and Irene Dunne star in this very funny Screwball comedy directed by Leo McCarey who won the oscar for Best Director. The film was released in 1937 and was nominated for 6 Academy Awards.

The story of it is basically, Jerry and Lucy (Cary Grant and Irene Dunne) are a married couple who decide to get a divorce, since they both suspect they are cheating. Lucy finds herself getting engaged to a rich millionaire, named Daniel (Ralph Bellamy, in yet another great role). Jerry and Lucy even try to decide in a court, who is going to get custody over their dog, Mr Smith (Yes, the dog!). Lucy wins, while Jerry gets visiting rights, to see Mr. Smith. This keeps the two seeing each other, and you can guess how it turns out in the end.

The movie is very fast moving, extremely funny, and you will see why it was so successful on its release.

The print on this DVD is not really very good and the sound is not great either, (You might like to compare it to Columbia's other poor effort for the DVD of 'Holiday') but it is worth buying and still very watchable, I am not trying to say it isn't. They just could have done better with it. It has a total lack of extras also.

Even though it has a slightly poor release that could have been a lot better, I would still recommend this brilliant film which I am sure anybody will enjoy.

PLEASE NOTE: I own the Region 2 release, which, appears to be no different to this anyways. The comparison to the bad print on the DVD of 'Holiday', also refers to the Region 2 release.

Nothing awful about the Awful Truth
In 1937 Cary Grant was already a Hollywood Giant... a dynamic actor and a genuine Star. But in the "Awful Truth," Irene Dunn took him to school. Yes, Mr. Grant was as charismatic as usual, delivering his lines marvelously, perfect in comedic timing, and demonstrating great physical humor. Throughout most of the movie, Grant and Dunne sparred on relatively equal terms, each earning a fair share of the proliferus laughter generated by their antics. However, at the last hearty chuckle, it was clear that Dunne had been toying with Grant throughout. No, this is not a spoiler and has nothing to do with the storyline, but rather an evaluation of their performances. Despite the magnificence of his, her's was better.

Irene Dunne was simply phenomenal, deserving her nomination for "Best Actress." She was funny, charming, exuberant, conniving, manipulative, and intriguing. The movie was slow to find it's footing and much time was wasted as Grant and Dunn, in the slower portions, are not on camera together and thus unable to "duel." But as the plot unfolds the momentum builds to a final crescendo and the mutual magic of these fine comedic artists delivers cascade upon cascade of laughter.

The director Lee McCarey, earning his Best Director Oscar, toyed with both the relatively new "Hayes Code" and the censors, implying with sensitivity and subtlety, a physical aspect of love and infatuation that was unnecessarily suppressed in movies for decades. The witty "doublespeak" dialog at the end was fascinating as each of these protagonists explained the situation in self-contradictory fashions and yet their meanings were unmistakable. Yes, there is a predictable plot but the witty words and scrappy schemes are pleasant surprises. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Considered by many their TOP silent film
Big Business is considered by many Laurel and Hardy buffs (and I have to admit I'm one) to be their BEST silent film. In his book The Films of Laurel & Hardy William Everson writes that "one could not imprudently label (this film) the funniest two reels on film." For many years, according to one report, it was one of the most popular silent shorts. The premise is shockingly simple: "the boys" are going door-to-door selling Christmas tress in California. They have no luck (and get some bumps on the head) and then have the misfortune of knocking on the door of James Finlayson. For younger audiences, Finlayson is the bald-headed, moustachioed originator of the "DOOH!" on film later uttered and made popular at the end of the 20th century by Homer Simpson. But this is a silent flick, beautifully transferred onto video with a nice score. So what's so funny? It's a film of comic retaliation and escalation. Each time Finlayson does something, Laurel and Hardy respond. He watches, sometimes steaming but not moving, other times grimacing. Then he responds and they watch. It escalates in silliness until we see Laurel & Hardy destroying his home by playing baseball with car parts (from his car) batting them through his window, while Finlayson wrestles on the ground in anger with a Christmas tree (which seems to be winning the match). All the while a stunned cop watches on. It's all in the TIMING of these comic bits, the reactions, and the cast's chemistry. There's a flow to the whole piece -- starting slow, and building with laugh after laugh. You can see why Jerry Seinfeld and others have sited Laurel and Hardy as just plain funny and inspirational. According to legend, when Roach studios filmed this they went to the wrong house and destoyed it by mistake. There are conflicting reports on this. But some years ago during one of the Laurel and Hardy club Sons of the Desert get togethers in L.A. members jumped on a bus and visited this and other houses used in their films. The Big Business house has hardly changed -- although it is better shape today than at the end of this priceless, laugh-crammed film. Big Business is worth seeing -- and owning.

A True Masterpiece!
This is one of Laurel & Hardy's more famous two-reelers. It's great comedy in its purest form. The reciprocal destruction that builds between the boys and Mr. Finlayson is a comic tour-de-force, almost mesmerizing. And by the way, they are NOT selling Christmas trees in JULY. It takes place in DECEMBER, which is why L&H are wearing heavy coats. This is a long-standing myth. You'll find no reference in the film to it taking place in July.

Hilarious Silent Short.
"Big Business" is by far one of Laurel and Hardy's funniest, and most finest shorts. It is a silent film and was released in 1929 (It was fimed in December of 1928) by Hal Roach/MGM. A two-reeler lasting 20 minutes. The film also stars James Finlayson.

Stan and Ollie are going around selling Christmas trees to people at their doors in the month of July. They get into a bit of trouble when they find themselves at James Finlayson's house. Smashing things through his window, destroying his piano, then the customer wrecking there car a little, taking it in turns. They are not happy until Stan and Ollie have completely destroyed Finlayson's house, and he has destroyed, completely, Stan and Ollie's car. And all this happening while a policeman is sitting in his car watching the whole thing, along with a number of neighbours standing in amazement during this hilarious scene.

This film is by far one of the best, and most funniest of all Laurel and Hardy shorts, inparticularly the silents, and is good for repeated viewings. A lot of repeated viewings. This is definately a must have for fans of the comedy duo.

I have not viewed this particular video, so I cannot comment on the print. This film has been released on a number of DVDs. Although I can recommend a 21 disc box set of Laurel and Hardy (which is close to being a complete set of their films together) released in the UK (Region 2) on DVD by Universal. If you cant play UK DVDs, then there is this video, or you can choose one of the US DVDs. It's included in one of the "Lost Films of Laurel and Hardy" volumes.

Silent Madness
Although I've seen few Silent pictures I am a huge fan of the Laurel & Hardy movies that have been made. This silent was tremendously funny, about Laurel and Hardy trying to go door to door to sell Christmas trees then after some mishaps Laurel & Hardy find themselves in an all out free for all with one of the potential customers in what has to be one of the funniest scenes I've seen on film. A definite purchase for those who are interested in the silent film genre and for those many Laurel & Hardy Buffs like me out there. Great Picture, too bad it's only 21 minutes.

Pure silly slapstick -- an acquired taste
The 3 star rating is mostly out of respect for Laurel and Hardy as pioneers of the medium, not to mention their multiple talents and charm such as I have rarely seen on the silver screen. But this item is purely a matter of taste. If yours runs to silent slapstick, this is as good a purchase as any. Otherwise, try the Laurel and Hardy talkies such as "Flying Deuces", or the Chaplin or Mae West movies. ... Read more

Description

An American burlesque girl intent on social climbing unknowingly marries a Nazi in the guise of an Austrian Baron. When an American radio reporter tracks the couple down to investigate, she inadvertently falls in love with the reporter instead. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Under-rated, VERY under-rated.
Why, oh why, do a lot of people dislike this movie? I really cant understand it. In my opinion, its one of the greatest movies thats ever been made! It has two of THE greatest (well, in my opinion) stars that there has ever been! (Even though I admit, I only watch old movies) And they are together! Its a real shame that Cary Grant and Ginger Rogers only made two movies together. The other, being a 1952 Howard Hawks movie, called 'Monkey Business' (Which I can also recommended).

Cary Grant plays the part of Pat. He is a radio correspondent that is covering Europe (this is pre-WW2, in 1938) and he meets Kate (played by Ginger Rogers, who might I add looks extremely good in this movie). Kate is married to an Austrian called Baron Von Luber (Walter Slezak, who plays the part well). He happens to be a Nazi secret agent. Hes a very bad man, helping Hitler conquer countries, even though Kate thinks he is saving them. She eventually finds out of course. The two lead characters, Pat and Kate, go on a number of adventures together, and as expected, fall in love with each other, while trying to get out to everyone that the Baron is an agent.

The film was released in 1942, directed by Leo McCarey, and was from the great, great studio (and as far as I am concerned, the studio that gave us the best movies) RKO Radio Pictures.

Being this is one of my all time favourites, I can obviously highly recommend this movie, and hope that you will trust me on this, and enjoy, this extremely under-rated movie.

PLEASE NOTE: From England, so I own the UK release of this video (which is from a different label to this). Looking at the other reviews on this product, it appears this US release is cut. Please be sure to read the other reviews.

Very Disappointing
This is a pale imitation of the film released to the general public and shown on TV since the 1950's. I was very disappointed to find many of the most famous speeches removed, weakening, and destroying the impact of the film. I can not recommend this version for these reasons. Don't be fooled by the Original Studio version. It is not as good as the one most people remember seeing.

Tension at odds with itself...
This is an unfortunate little film. I say this not because it attempts to use the Blitzkreig as a platform for romantic comedy, but because it takes itself too seriously and always at the wrong time. The end result is an uncomfortable mixture of tensions all at odds with each other. What started out as a potentially interesting and fun film with a touch of danger somehow degenerated into a mixed mush of comedy, wartime intrigue, and suspense.

The cast is stellar. Grant is in top form as newspaper reporter and radio commentator O'Toole. Ginger Rogers is equally good, and consistant throughout as the showgirl turned baroness O'Hara. I also liked Walter Slezak as the Baron.

That made the film more frustrating for me; I liked the cast and most of the comedy, but the juxtaposition of a screwball comedy with an Hitchcockian wartime suspenser just doesn't work. I think it could have been pulled off if the producers had held back a bit on the wartime danger and the brutality of camps and spy murders. Unfortunately, the producers were trying to tell two stories at once, and that doomed the film to being unworkable. It really is too bad that they couldn't have simply just gone one way or the other; wartime suspense drama, or wartime romantic comedy with a dash of intrigue.

As for the criticism of the portrayal of "death camps", I think this is a bit unfair. My impression was that the characters never actually reach a camp per se, but rather a staging area. A minor difference, to be sure, but regardless of where they actually are, Americans are being shown here in a rather unsubtle fashion that the same thing happening in Europe could happen down on Maple Street, in Anywhere, USA.

Bottom line, I think the film is worth a viewing, but you may not want to actually own it. The film is ultimately just bizzare, and overall borders on bad taste historically. Too bad, because it could have been memorable and magic.

One of the strangest, most troubling films made in Hollywood
'Once Upon A Honeymoon' would almost be as reviled as DW Griffith's 'Birth Of A Nation' if it hadn't been swept under the carpet by an embarrassed posterity. Dubbed an unintentional 'Springtime for Hitler', the film follows reporter Cary Grant's attempt to persuade social-climbing showgirl Ginger Rogers that her aristocratic husband Walter Slezak is Hitler's right-hand man, paving the way for the Fuhrer's invasions. The complaint is not just that 1942 wasn't the best time for a comedy about the Nazis, but that the subject matter - Hitler's march through Europe and the systematic destruction of democratic governments; the assassination of patriots; the Jewish death camps - are never appropriate subjects for comedy. The concentration camp sequence is especially notorious, with a well-dressed and well-fed Grant and Rogers mistaken for Jews, forced to lie in a beautiful-looking wasteland where traditional Jewish laments are beautifully sung, while they wait for the American consul to rescue them. You know, THOSE concentration camps (in fairness, what other Hollywood film of the period even acknowledged their existence?).

These typically myopic judgements of the politically correct obscure the real interest of this film. As a romantic comedy, the film disapppoints, especially with these talents - the lines and situations are never funny in the way Lubitsch's similarly taste-dodging masterpiece 'To Be Or Not To Be' is - it's up to the stars' immense charm to keep you going, and their interaction, all moues and double takes, becomes extremely affecting. They guide us into the strangeness of the film, its genuinely shocking mix of moods. There is no Hollywood film I can think of that mixes romantic comedy with the 'straight' staging of a brutal murder - the film is not just an index of Hollywood blindness or naivete, but a brilliant record of how confused Hollywood were at the time, anguishing over how to represent the war, Nazism, the threat to America, the realities of genocide, the very real fear of global anhilation, while making affirmative entertainment for a popular audience. These destructive, unresolvable tensions in what is supposed to be a simplistic propaganda film make it fascinating today, as do the intimations of Hitchcock's great masterpiece, 'Notorious' - Grant as a morally ambiguous patriot; a wife encouraged to risk her life spying on her Nazi husband.

Hilarious and Thought Provoking
Admittedly, this film has plenty of American propaganda, but that doesn't really detract from your enjoyment of it. Grant is charming, to say the least. The serious subject matter mixes well with the comedy. And, as always, Leo McCarey made a romance that makes you cry (watch for the poem that Grant writes for Rogers). I haven't seen the original, but this one is damn good. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Not Mae's best script, but her best score
Like her nearest competitiors the Marx brothers and W.C. Fields, Mae West worked best in films where the logic of the plot made the least sense (as in I'M NO ANGEL where she's a lion tamer who conquers New York's society lions). In this film version of one of her stage plays, the plot is pretty sensible, which acts to its detriment. Mae doesn't get nearly as great lines as she usually does, and there's all this creaking plot machinery to establish her moral position and that of her no-good boyfriends. Still, it has great sets and costumes, and you get to hear her really cut loose with some of the best honky-tonk songs she ever got to sing in her wonderful adenoidal way, including "My Old Flame" and "Memphis Blues." her accompaniment is by Duke Ellington and his orchestra (you even get to see them with her in one scene), which should let you know how special this score is. And Mae is of course always Mae.

After the Code...still worthwhile
The Production Code certainly did its duty (and damage) with Mae West's films. Her lines and remarks were dramatically "toned down". If you compare this movie with its immediate Pre-Code predecessors "She Done Him Wrong" and "I'm No Angel", you'll know what I mean.

Anyway, still worthwhile to watch, West has a field day as "the flame" of both, St. Louis and New Orléans, with boxer Roger Pryor, upper-class Johnny Mack Brown and villainous casino owner John Miljan, at the top of the list of her admirers. Mae never looked so ravishing again as in this picture, in those awesome 1890s gowns designed especially for her by Paramount's top couturier Travis Banton. She also gets to sing a great deal here, mostly accompanied by a young Duke Ellington and his Orchestra.

Sex appeal oozing from her pores
She aint no stick figure, but she is ALL woman. Mae was the sort of woman who knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to ask. She had a great voice for the blues and a good head for the double entendre's. It's a fun movie and never tries to take itself seriously. Well worth a look.

A WEST-ERN GEM FROM 1934
More spectacular than Mae's first two vehicles, BELLE OF THE NINETIES cost more that her previous starrers combined, and still reaped a huge profit. The story was written by Mae herself and it's pretty weak - although the Hays office snapped its scissors on some of her best lines. West's unique presence, and command for innuendo - which could raise laughs from the most innocuous remarks, kept the movie simmering. So did the superb Duke Ellington Orchestra which ably helped Mae through four numbers - most notably the standard to be MY OLD FLAME. Looking like an upholstered egg-timer, the star was kept on the screen front and centre throughout by astute director Leo McCarey in this William Le Baron production from 1934. For trivia buffs, the working title of this flick was IT AIN'T NO SIN - however the censors disagreed, and the title was laundered along with the risque script. Mae struts her stuff as 1890's singer Ruby Carter who gets involved with a boxer.......... Such lines as "It's better to be looked over than overlooked" and such done in her inimitable style gets the point across, even if the prudish and rather foolish Hays office thought otherwise. The rather chunky, 41 year-old star was photographed by Karl Struss and Mae never looked better on film.

Mae West as Ruby Carter
BELLE OF THE NINETIES was originally entitled "It Ain't no Sin". However, the censors disagreed and the result was a changed title and a laundered script. Mae is a nightclub performer who sings "My Old Flame" among other numbers with Duke Ellington's orchestra in the background; Roger Pryor is her love interest, a boxer named Tiger Kid. In one scene John Miljan goes into great detail in describing Mae's physical attributes while proposing, Mae stops him cold: "Wait a moment"! "Is this a proposal or are you takin' inventory! " Directed by Leo McCarey and photographed by Karl Struss (Mae never looked better) this is still an amusing example of West-ern humor! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

One of the best, if not THE best silent L&H short.
"Liberty" is one of the funniest movies that Laurel and Hardy ever made, and maybe my favourite out of all the silents. It was released in 1929 by Hal Roach/MGM. Directed by, and co-written by Leo McCarey.

It begins with Stan and Ollie escaping from jail and jumping in this get away car, while a cop is chasing them with a gun. While in the car, they get out of their prisoners clothes and change in to their own, which the get away drivers pass to them. Once out of the car, and away from the policeman, they realize they are wearing each others trousers. So they try hiding around corners, trying to change into the correct ones, while they keep on getting seen. They do eventually get in the right ones, first with Stan, and then Ollie having a live crab inside their trousers. They then find themselves up on top of a high, unfinished building, where the rest of the comedy takes place, as they find themselves nearly falling straight off it, and their struggle to try and get down.

There are plenty of hilarious moments in this one, and by far the best of their short films. I love the birds-eye view of the busy streets down below though when they are on top of the building, dangling off of it. Also, it has a brief short appearance with Jean Harlow who is a woman about to get into a cab which Stan and Ollie are just getting out of. Also stars James Finlayson. This one is definately worth getting.

The video edition here, I have not viewed, so no comment on the print used here. The film is on a number of DVD releases now I am to believe. In the UK on DVD (Region 2) there is a 21 disc box set of Laurel and Hardy films, which is near enough complete, which if you can play Region 2 DVDs, get it. "Liberty" can be found on US DVD releases also.

A Laurel & Hardy classic, directed by Leo McCarey
"Liberty" is the last and best of the three Laurel & Hardy two-reelers directed by Leo McCarey for Hal Roach-MGM in 1929. The boys escape from prison whereupon they are picked up by friends in a car and change into civilian clothes. The simple premise for this classic comedy is that Stan and Ollie have on each other's pants, and they spend the rest of the time trying to change clothes, ending up on the high girders of a skyscraper. Obviously this is a very large tip of the hat to the work of Harold Lloyd, although the gags are all perfect for Laurel & Hardy. It is also a very risque film for its day, with the boys always being discovered lowering their pants in strange places. When you count the best Laurel & Hardy two-reelers on one hand, "Liberty" has definitely got to be one of them. Final Notes: This film was also known as "Criminals at Large" because of bootlegged prints carrying that title and is another one of the boy's silent shorts in which Jean Harlow makes an appearance (as a young girl stepping into a cab with her date).

A Silent Classic
This is the best silent comedy classic I have ever seen. Hal Roach Productions really knew what they were doing when they made this short. I was on the edge of my seat when I first saw this film. I now own 6 silents of the boys and definatly continuing my collection.

One of Laurel & Hardy's funniest films
I consider this to be one of L&H's funniest films. Liberty and most other L&H short films are easily worth buying at the same price you would normally pay for a full-length film, because there are more laughs in 20 minutes than there are in most full-length comedies.

The plot has L&H escaping from prison, and they quickly changing out of their striped prison uniforms and into their regular clothes while being chased by police. In their haste, each one accidentally puts on the other's pants. They look for a place to change their pants, while inadvertantly being caught repeatedly with their pants down in public places.

One of several places they duck into to change is the elevator to a building under construction, where Stan accidently hits the lever, bringing them up to the top floor.

There are very few comedy films of any era that can compare to Laurel and Hardy's, and this is one of their best.

It's short, only 20 minutes long, but it's worth it.
If you have acrophobia be careful when you watch this Harold Lloyd type film. Laurel and Hardy performing nail biting antics on a real steel girder set built for this film. I'll never know why the producer would (seemingly) risk life and limb of these new stars in making such a film. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

For those who love the Marx Brothers (Animal Crackers, A Night at the Opera), that this movie is side-slappingly funny is a given. For those new to the Marx Brothers, this is the perfect introduction to Groucho, Chico, and Harpo (and even Zeppo), three of the funniest men to ever grace the screen. Rufus T. Firefly (Groucho) is the dictator of the small nation Freedonia. The country is a disaster, in financial disrepair, and the wealthy Mrs. Teasdale (Margaret Dumont) is its benefactor and the object of Firefly's shrewd affection. When the leader of the neighboring Sylvania decides he's in love with Mrs. Teasdale, Firefly declares war. The movie, from 1933, is tremendously satirical, a play on politics and war. (As Firefly says to a hapless young solider, "You're a brave man. Go and break through the lines. And remember, while you're out there risking your life and limb through shot and shell, we'll be in be in here thinking what a sucker you are.") Full of witty lines, great sight gags, and even some snazzy song numbers ("Freedonia's Going to War" is the hilarious declaration of battle), this is surely one of the best--if not the best--the Marx Brothers have to offer. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (81)

If you can't send help, send 2 more women!
This is my favorite Marx Brothers comedy. Absolutely nuts from beginning to end, they kicked out all the stops on this one, with one of the best and truest satirical jabs at jingoism and militarism ever put on film. "Freedonia's Going to War" and everyone is singing about it!

There are so many great bits in this one: Harpo & Chico battling the lemonade vendor; Groucho & the inimitable Margaret Dumont "That covers a lot of ground, matter of fact you cover a lot of ground, I hear they're going to tear you down and put up an office building... can't you see what I'm saying, I love you!"; the 3 brothers dressed in nightshirts with groucho moustaches (Gad they looked alike)doing the mirror pantomime; Groucho insulting & taking umbrage with Louis Calhern's Ambassador Trentino "Upstart? My father was a little Upstart, my mother was a little Armstrong...."; Groucho's Rufus T. Firefly with the Tommygun ("Look at em run" "But you're killing your own men" "Here's 5 bucks, keep it under your hat."); and on and on.

Arguably their best,this effort didn't do well on release. I think because it was ahead of its time and was the riskiest because of the political jokes and the times. But, it is just plain funny with some of Groucho's best lines and some of the best interplay between the brothers, and without a lot of the shmaltz & corn & musical interludes. Classic.

A hilarious movie!
To gain financial support from Mrs. Teasdale (Margaret Dumont), the tiny bankrupt country of Freedonia agrees to take Rufus T. Firefly (Groucho Marx) as their new president (the poor saps). Mayhem springs from Firefly's cynical and sarcastic leadership, culminating in war with the neighboring country of Sylvania. Throughout, Pinky (Harpo Marx) and Chicolini (Chico Marx) are scheming among the great and powerful, taking money from Trentino (Louis Calhern) of Sylvania, and directing Firefly's war effort. [Black & white, created in 1933, with a running time of 70 minutes.]

This movie contains some of Groucho's funniest witticisms, his badinage with Margaret Dumont producing some of the funniest lines in theatrical history. The story takes something of a backseat to the Marx brother's comedy, but this movie is first and foremost a satire of politics in general, and war and patriotism in particular. Back to the comedy, this movie is fantastically funny, containing the famous mirror scene, where Chico is dressed as Groucho, who must figure out if he is seeing his reflection or something else!

This is a great movie. The comedy is funny and clean, and can be watched by viewers of any age. I highly recommend this movie.

Where is the Region 1 release?
I don't need to gush over how great this movie is, plenty of customers have already done that. Warner Brothers did the Marx Brother's justice with their five DVD set of seven films with loads of special features. Granted that set is of their later films but isn't it time their early movies got the same treatment? Great collections of their early films are available in R2 and R4 formats, why not R1? Any answer? Universal Studios?

A comedy classic that still holds up...
My two favorite comedies of all time are "Duck Soup" and "Airplane." Don't agree with "Airplane?" I have a good mind to join a club and beat you over the head with it!

Anyway, few people will dispute that "Duck Soup" is one of the funniest movies ever made. So many classic lines and zany moments; this is the Marx Brothers at the peak of their powers. It was made in the 30's, but holds up extremely well. That makes it a timeless movie. Never boring or corny. I swear the whole hat gag has to be one of the funniest things I've ever seen.

So... when can we expect a reissue on DVD, Paramount/Universal?

Worth Every Penny (Ruble)
My good friend K.M (Karl Marx recommended this movie to me a while ago (back in 1933 about nine years after my premature death)

Now I have it on DVD and I can still say that I find this movie just as great as I did back 70 years ago.

Groucho and his ilk (The other brothers) continue (even in death) to represent the gold standard of comedy.

Despite my untimely death I still find that this movie makes me laugh like no other.

Oh by the way Groucho, Karl told me that your Mom wanted you to pick up a gallon of milk. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Well, quite honestly...
Although this original 1939 version of the thrice-told story is usually hailed as the best of the lot, today it seems slow and more melodramatic than romantic. In the first hashing of this story, Irene Dunne and Charles Boyer play the star-crossed pair on a transatlantic cruiser and fall in love. They plan to meet at the Empire State Building in several months, but an accident prevents Dunne from showing up. The end is perhaps the best scene, in which Boyer discovers what happened to Dunne- it's one of the few believable scenes in the picture.

Unfortunately, casting is not as believable. Irene Dunne chirps and quips her way through the picture, and does not seem to be acting up to her caliber until the last emotional scene (Why was this, of all of Dunne's finest performances, nominated for an Oscar?). Charles Boyer fares somewhat better, when that heavy French accent doesn't get in the way. Marie Ouspenskaya is indeed very good as Boyer's wise grandmother.

The cinematography is very good, and costumes are very good. Unfortunately, both fail completely saving the picture. For a better version, see "An Affair to Remember" the REAL best of the lot: Chemistry between Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr is much deeper and more enchanting, and glowing Technicolor adds a real nice touch to the story. Even in the role of the grandmother, Cathleen Nesbitt fares better than Marie Ouspenskaya. Although "Affair" is pretty much a shot-for-shot remake of this film, it's worth it to see Cary and Deborah look into each other's eyes.

Love Affair: Love Overcomes Adversity
LOVE AFFAIR is one of many films whose theme is that love does not adhere to imposed schedule. What distinguishes this movie from other and similar ones is what the actors do and say after they realize this. Terry McKay (Irene Dunne) and Michel Marnet (Charles Boyer) are each romantically involved with other people when they meet and fall in love on a sea voyage to New York. This sort of thing happens often enough in real life but their reaction to their new emotions reveals their basic decency and depth of feeling. They agree to meet months later on the top floor of the Empire State Building to cement their relation. Thus far, the tone is one of light, romantic comedy. However, LOVE AFFAIR takes an unexpected tragic detour as Terry is crippled in a car accident. Other movies have often dealt with issues in which one lover grows ill or crippled, but in this film, one of the lovers (Terry) makes things worse by hiding her condition by running away from Michel. For most of the second half, Terry and Michel are apart physically but connected emotionally. Each copes with the separation as best as they can. Michel's grief is probably the easier to cope with since he feels that he was unjustly jilted so what can he do about that except heal. Terry's grief is more multi-faceted since she has to live with a series of complicating factors, only one of which (her being confined to a wheelchair) is beyond her control. She must reconcile her present unhappiness with the unpleasant realization that she could have tossed away a life of bliss with a man who might not have been scared off by the prospect of a wheelchair bound wife. Miss Dunne was a deserved nominee for Best Actress as she manages to hide her misgivings about her decision to break off the relation beneath smile and song. Charles Boyer is convincing as a man who loses his love, does not know why, and then must face the consequences of factors totally beyond his control. LOVE AFFAIR is not your three hanky sobber. Rather it is an intelligent exploration of love gone astray, a condition exacerbated when one of them discovers that this love sometimes needs a healthy dose of honesty and confidence to keep it on track.

A classic golden age romance
Charles Boyer and Irene Dunne star in this delightful romance movie, which opens with some brilliant dialogue, then devolves into a convoluted melodrama, as the screenwriters struggle to come up with *some* silly reason these two star-crossed lovers shouldn't get together. Both actors are splendid in their roles.

Buy It Anyway on DVD
The quality of the DVD is good enough to be able to enjoy the movie. No white outs, black outs or pixalation. On the other hand it is not what you can call great. I noticed a sound problem for a few minutes but I could tolerate it. This DVD is adequate until someone puts out a restored version. I prefer movies on DVD even if the VHS version is better. The story and actors are just great. In short don't pay too much and don't expect too much and you can enjoy a great old movie. That said let's hope someone restores it.

Simply The Best!
Irene Dunne glows in this movie. She delivers the jokes and poignant lines in an effortless, natural way way Kerr never could. Dunne is just funnier and Charles Boyer is much more expressive than Grant.

Normally I'm a die hard Cary Grant fan but "Love Affair" is the best version of this wonderful story. It inspires both laughs and tears. Five stars isn't enough. I keep a copy of this close at hand for those rainy days... ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The Bells of St. Mary's works much better for its battle of wills between a parish priest and a head nun than the dopey musical interludes that pepper it, but Bells is still a winning, emotionally satisfying film. This sequel to Going My Way has Father O'Malley (Bing Crosby) taking over the St. Mary's parochial school and finding himself at loggerheads with Sister Benedict (Ingrid Bergman, looking gorgeous even in a habit). There's a wonderful balance to all of this: O'Malley takes a more worldly approach to administration and is wrong just as many times as the nun is when she insists on a more biblical approach. About four subplots suffuse the film, including the story of a young charge from the wrong side of the tracks, and the deteriorating state of St. Mary's in the shadow of a brand-new building (the owner is played by the avuncular Henry Travers). A dear film. --Keith Simanton ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Bing's Tones, Ingrid's Charms,Remastered on DVD....Heavenly!
This review refers to the Silver Screen Classics Edition(Republic Pictures)DVD.......

A beautiful sequel to "Going My Way", is now a beautifully transfered to DVD. "The Bells of St.Mary's" is funny, poignant and will tug at your heartstrings.Father O'Malley(Bing Crosby) has now been assigned to a parochial school that is in dire need of repairs. The school has no money and O'Malley's job is to assess the possibilites, of perhaps sending the children to another school.He meets with some tough oppostion though, in the form of one Sister Benedict(Ingrid Bergman). She is the no nonsense type,and right away the two have some very different ideas on what's good for the kids.There is also the problem of a businesman(Henry Travers) who wants the building condemned so he can put up a parking lot for his own employees.Sister Benedict prays for miracle, will she get it?

The story and Ingrid Bergman are charming and delightful and will have you praying with her for that miracle.Bing's beautiful voice graces the film with song and Henry Travers(It's A Wonderful Life) is wonderful as always. It's not too often a sequel equals the original, but with the addition of Bergman, (along with some really adorable kids)and under the direction of Leo McCarey once again, this heartwarming story has accomplished that.

This Silver Screens Classic DVD has done a really nice job with the remastering of this Black and White Classic.The film made in 1945 barely shows it's age. It is a nice clear picture, and the Dolby Digital Sound is good as well. It contains the original Theatrical Trailer, Has French and Spanish language tracks as well as subtitles, and has captioning in English.It also comes with a little brochure with some facts about the filming.If your looking for some great old classics that look great on DVD to add to your collection, this would be a good one.

Happy Viewing......Laurie

ESSENTIAL in ANY collection
The first time I saw Leo McCarey's THE BELLS OF ST MARY'S was on Christmas Day of 2002 when it aired on TCM. I was blown away from the moment the Main Title rolled across the screen. I've always been a sucker for sentimental movies of the 40s (like MGM's MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS and IN THE GOOD OLD SUMMERTIME, both Judy Garland vehicles... btw, both have recently received beautiful DVD transfers; check them out), and ST MARY'S fits the bill to the "t". I picked up a copy of the DVD this past holiday season. I've seen the movie complete a number of times and never tire of watching it. This is the epitome of 40's motion picture entertainment.

An excellent cast turn in very praiseworthy performances. Bing Crosby is Father O'Malley. Crosby is the only actor ever to have been nominated for a Best Actor Oscar twice for the same role, having also played Father O'Malley in GOING MY WAY the previous year. Ingrid Bergman plays Sister Benedict, the Sister Superior of St. Mary's. Mr. Bogardus is played by Henry Travers... more famliarly known as Clarence from IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE.

The film earned eight Oscar nominations and won for Best Sound Recording.
Nominated for...
Best Actor (Crosby)
Best Acress (Bergman)
Direction (Leo McCarey)
Editing
Score of a dramatic/comedy picture (Robert Emmett Dolan)
Song (Aren't You Glad You're You)
Sound Recording
Best Picture

It's a shame ST MARY'S didn't walk away with more Oscars, this truly is a beautiful film and is necessary in any collection. Good for watching anytime, especailly when your spirit needs a lift.

The DVD transfer is outstanding. Picture is stable and clear throughout. Sound is crisp, with little distortion whatsoever. There is a theatrical trailer included, but no other extras. My only complaint about the DVD transfer... what is up with the gray bar at the bottom of the screen that appears at about the 2nd or 3rd page of the Main Title? It looks like it was digitally superimposed over the film to cover something up, but what and why?

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED in any collection. A classic.

Bells of St Mary's Beware
If you buy this DVD expecting it to be the video on disc, you will be quite disappointed. Within the first five minutes you'll discover that a scene has been cut. I purchased this version as part of transitioning our holiday film collection to disc from video and I'm quite disappointed.

Bing Crosby helps an order of nuns at St. Mary's.
Bing Crosby continues his tour-de-force in this sequel to the film, Going My Way (1944). This time Father O'Malley must help the nuns at St. Mary's. Father Fogerty has been sent to the rest home, so O'Malley will be tak