Review of Only Angels Have Wings (1939) by Clayton W — 07 Jan 2007

Here's the second movie I've watched from my box set. From the title (there are no descriptions of the films), I expected a romantic film in the vein of "An Affair to Remember," but this isn't like that movie at all. However, it's still great, and I simply love watching Cary Grant act. It's comparable to watching the Beatles play or watching Shakespeare write.

The basic plot involves Geoff Carter (Grant), a man who runs an airport in South America. There are a bevy of characters who pass through, including a lively woman named Bonnie Lee (Jean Arthur) and the woman Geoff used to love. Geoff believes that he can either have a woman or continue to be a pilot, and he is unwilling to give up his passion for the sky, despite his flirtations with Bonnie.

Grant is as great as ever in this different role; Geoff is a bit of a jerk at times, not the romantic that I'm used to seeing Grant portray. As in "His Girl Friday," Grant has an amazing female lead to work with, as Jean Arthur is hysterical and instantly likeable as Bonnie. I wish she hd been in it more, because she absolutely lights up the screen when she's on it; she's a real scene stealer.

My main problem with the movie is it drags a bit toward the end; it clocks in at a solid two hours, and is thoroughly enjoyable throughout, although a bit dull at times.

Another great Cary Grant movie, making me exctied yet again for the next.