Review of Monkey Business (1952) by John R — 19 Feb 2004
(Theatre) (First Viewing, 5th Hawks film).
The more I think about it, the less I like it. I think there were a few times I laughed out loud, but for the life of me I can't remember what for. Cary Grant discovers a formula that temporarily makes one relive their youth- so of course too much is taken on numerous occasions, and craziness inevitably ensues. While sometimes the results are amusing, more often than not they're cringe-inducing (particularly Grant's war song with the children).
Though this is a Grant/Ginger Rogers vehicle (the matronly Rogers being a far cry from the sexy, brash dancer of the 30's), Marilyn Monroe really is the best thing about it. Regrettably, she's not in the film very much at all- but when she is, all eyes are on her.
When it comes down to it, [b]Monkey Business[/b] made me pine for the inspired lunacy of [b]Bringing Up Baby[/b]. This film is without a doubt the weakest Hawks film I have seen to date.
This review of Monkey Business (1952) was written by John R on 19 Feb 2004.
Monkey Business has generally received positive reviews.
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