The Man Who Came to Dinner

”The Man Who Came to Dinner” (Warner Bros. 1941), adapted from the stage play of the same name, comes to the screen in a glorious, daffy, side-splitting comedy. Starring Monty Woolley as acid critic Sheridan Whiteside, who inflicts himself on the home of a bourgeois Idaho family after slipping on their icy steps and then proceeds to take over their residence, servants and household. With an excellent cast, including a twittery Billie Burke, laconic Bette Davis as Whiteside’s long-suffering secretary and bits by Ann Sheridan (supposedly based on real-life star Gertrude Lawrence), Jimmy Durante and Reginald Gardiner, this crackles with wit, humour and hilarious sight gags galore. Great dialogue from the Epstein brothers (of Casablanca script fame) and ably directed by William Keighley.

Perhaps runaway narcissism isn't as funny as it used to be - maybe it's just me. Anyway, this grade-A production of a long-running Broadway comedy crafted by hit-makers Kaufman and Hart, may give you some laffs, if you don't need footnotes for the many dated joke references. The kind of madcap, crowded stage, manic, screwball escapades beloved by mid-century audiences. A talented cast, led by Bette Davis in a supporting role. A beautiful Bluray transfer by Warner Archive.

For many years I have loved this witty comedy - great script , wonderful talented cast - Monty Woolley as Irrascible critic Sheridan Whiteside, Bette Davis as the long suffering secretary who is more than a match for her ever demanding boss and Billie Burke and Grant Mitchell as increasingly frustrated hosts to their unwanted guest. It’s a laugh a minute! The Blu Ray from Warner Archive is 5 star quality and the service from Moviezyng is exceptionally good with reasonable shipping costs to the UK.

The Man Who Came To Dinner has been one of my favourite movies for many years. Excellent cast with Bette Davis, Ann Sheridan and Monty Wooley. The script is witty and razor sharp and it's the type of movie that improves with each viewing. A truly great movie. Warner Archive has delivered a fabulous restoration. The audio and visual quality is truly excellent and adds to the overall viewing experience. A movie that I can highly recommend.