Review of Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) by Joe L — 04 Feb 2009
Surprisingly over the top.. it's hard to believe that this is the same cary grant who starred in 'north by northwest.' the overall tone is set by capra who winks at the audience via some clever opening titles.
like 'you can't take it with you,' this is another capra screen adaptation of a play about a crazy family. I found some of the slapstick humor endearing, but too over the top to laugh at. grant is somehow in sitcom mode as he mugs, even looks at the camera, but it all still -kind of- works with the expert performances of the two old ladies who keep the story grounded with their easy charm.
peter lorre's comic performance is worth noting as well - that man made an incredible career in both comedy and drama playing slightly different variations of the same creepy guy.
This review of Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) was written by Joe L on 04 Feb 2009.
Arsenic and Old Lace has generally received very positive reviews.
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