Review of The Catered Affair (1956) by Bob V — 30 Apr 2011

This film generally gets poor reviews from critics, but seems much beloved by audiences. Clearly I'm part of the audience and I really enjoyed this film.

Bette Davis is often criticized for an unconvincing Bronx accent, and perhaps that is true, not being American, it sounds Bronx to me and it didn't bother me at all, and it certainly didn't distract me from her performance, which is superb & a somewhat unusual one for her.

I was surprised by Debbie Reynolds who I'd never seen in a straight-up dramatic role, but she pulled it off beautifully, making me wonder why she was not given (or perhaps was not inclined to take) the chance to do more films like this.

Director Brooks makes you sympathize with all of the opposing characters in turn, always treating them with respect, without hiding away their pettier qualities and absurdities. Because of this 'no bad guy' story-telling the characterization of human relationship is subtle and convincing.