This rarely-seen 1944 British black-and-white comedy is a blessed tonic in an age of crude, coarse, and cringe-worthy comedies. Based on the 1926 play by Frederick Lonsdale, the delightfully screwball On Approval moves the original plot from the Roaring 20s to the Victorian era. Clive Brook (who also directed) stars as George, the 10th Duke of Bristol. Roland Culver costars as his friend Richard. Both men are financially bereft and undertake a scheme to marry into money. In a rare screen appearance, legendary stage comedian Beatrice Lillie stars as wealthy widow Maria, who invites Richard to her Scottish island mansion for a one-month trial marriage. George has his eye on Maria's American friend (the delightful Googie Withers, who, in one of the disc's extras, candidly and colorfully recalls the making of the film). The frantic follies are punctuated by hilariously quotable dialogue, such as, “She's not crying because I said she was 41; she's crying because she is 41.” Other extras include audio commentary by film historian Jeffrey Vance, and a stills gallery. Highly recommended. (D. Liebenson)
On Approval
Inception, 80 min., not rated, Blu-ray: $34.98 Volume 28, Issue 4
On Approval
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