Review of Mon Oncle (1958) by Torsten D — 04 Apr 2004

[b][font=Verdana]The Ladykillers (Alexander Mackendrick, 1955) - 8.0 / PRO.

[/b]What do we need a remake for? And why do the Coens waste their time with it?

Mackendrick?s small British comedy is really a gem, which is kinda surprising, because all the jokes in the film are based on the premise and the situation, in which are five gangsters and bunch of old ladies are confronted. The film is very funny, but also visually quite nice. I had not have expected that it would work so good.

[b]Lola Montes (Max Ophüls, 1955) - 6.0 / mixed.

[/b]The fact that this film is visually remarkable goes without saying and I have always liked these over-coloured Technicolor-films. Contentwise this costume drama is unfortunately not very remarkable. The beginning was promising, but ultimately the film lacks a real dramatic impact or anything substantial. In the end I was let down.

[b]Mon Oncle (Jaques Tati, 1958)- 8.0 / PRO.

[/b]This comedy is propably not for everybody. First of all I have to say that this a sterling example that comedies do not have to be lightweights. What the film is trying to say, is obvious after 5 minutes and this will bug some people. The film is hardly ever laugh-out-loud funny, but it put me a grin on my face that wouldn?t go away for 2 hours. The very important set direction is an important factor and the film also succeeds visually. I recommend it strongly, fully aware that not everybody will like it, but it should at least be given a try.[/font].