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Rating:  - Spend some time with the world's worst houseguest
Well, I recently had a wonderful experience watching "The Little Foxes", a darkly dramatic Bette Davis film rich with razor-sharp dialogue, so I guess it should be no surprise that I also had a wonderful time watching this silly, comedic Bette Davis film rich with razor-sharp dialogue. Serious or funny, it seems clear that 40's-era Bette Davis films tend to deliver the banter. The change here is that Ms. Davis isn't the one delivering the edgy witticisms, at least not most of them. That job goes to the very entertaining Monty Woolley, who plays the houseguest from Hell.
After you enjoy the ridiculous but great fun of "The Man Who Came To Dinner", be sure to check out the brief story-behind-the-film featurette also included on the disc. It contains many fascinating anecdotes about the real-life inspirations behind many of the characters and situations in the film.
One last thought: you really have to admire a movie that manages to squeeze in goofy pratfalls, great lines, live penquins (four of them), an octopus in a crate, and a radiant Bette Davis, and have it all make sense! Have fun with this one. I did.
Rating:  - FUNNY!
Lots of fun to watch. Lots of laughs. In my opinion, not the typical Bette Davis movie.
Rating: - Must See
This is one of my favorite movies of all time. The dialog is quick and witty, and the movie moves along at a good pace. Some of the references are dated now, but that's part of what makes it a classic. It is a must see for all.
Rating: - Madcap Monty
Monty Woolley is the key to this movie. Take him out of it and Bette Davis might have kept it afloat, but it would not have been nearly as funny. Great support roles by Ann Sheridan, Billy Burke, and many more. Something about the way he can complain, kibitz, and rudely stick his nose in makes for an entertaining movie. For years my wife and I had to be satisfied with watching this on our VHS. I am so glad they finally released it on DVD. Fans of the older comedy movies will definitely enjoy it. If you are a fan of Monty Woolley it is a must see. This and "Pied Piper" are two of my favorites with him. I hope they put it on DVD too.
Synopsis: A cantankerous lecturer breaks his leg and rather than face a lawsuit the prominent homeowner indulges him to stay with them. When the lecturer's friends and penguin delivery finally take there toll, the homeowner throws him out. Not to be outdone the lecturer plots a way to get around it so that he can interfere with a womans love life. Great performances by Monty Woolley and Betty Davis.
Rating: - excellent film
Recommended. Even my kids liked it! (even though it was Black & White)
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