Review of My Man Godfrey (1936) by Lanning : — 29 May 2009

One of those rare near perfect films. The more I see of William Powell, the more I wish I could have sat down and had a beer with him. An extraordinary actor with an amazing range. He is never overstated, always choosing under the top delivery combined with perfect, subtle gestures.

Even in the most comedic films of his I've seen -- the Thin Man series, for instance -- he is never overly broad. I hope I never live to regret this statement via further research, but I can't help but believe that Bill Powell must have been an upstanding and all-embracingly decent human being.

Truly, if he was not a wonderful person, I would really rather you not disabuse me of my happy ignorance. The term "Everyman" might be used too much. But not by me. Powell is the epitome on screen of that proverbial -- to the point of becoming cliche -- Everyman.

This one is an amazing love story on top of a supremely gifted acting display. And yes, it is funny. Mr. Powell, not only are you on my all-time favorite actor list, but with every film I discover, you are rising to the top of that very small, very revered group.

I look forward to living long enough to see every single movie you've ever made.