Review of Genevieve (1953) by Tom M — 12 Apr 2010
Gently funny and very English, "Genevieve" comes across resplendently today, 57 years on. It is visually striking, with the dashing crimsons of Kay Kendall's lipstick and the old roadster Genevieve herself.
It is also splendidly acted, with John Gregson's reserve and Kenneth More's overgrown-schoolboy brio. Dinah Sheridan is the epitome of sensible and there is an amusing cameo from Joyce Grenfell.
Kay Kendall's famous trumpet-playing scene is pivotal; a sorely underrated, unusual actress. It is a 'feelgood' film from a time when Britain seemed to have a lot to feel good about; there is a sense of enjoyment in tradition - the race and cars - alien to us today.
The late scene with 'The Old Gentleman' is telling and moving in equal measure. Boyish enthusiasms are to be indulged; they maketh the man, this film seems to be saying - and this isn't a film that prudishly avoids sex and marital relations, either.
Ealingesque, and of the best such vintage.
This review of Genevieve (1953) was written by Tom M on 12 Apr 2010.
Genevieve has generally received positive reviews.
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