Romance and Riches Collide in Vintage Comedy

Read Time:3 Minute, 55 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Has Anybody Seen My Gal
Approved –

Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 1952, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 28m
Director(s): Douglas Sirk
Writer(s): Joseph Hoffman, Eleanor H. Porter
Cast: Rock Hudson, Piper Laurie, Charles Coburn, Gigi Perreau, Lynn Bari, William Reynolds, Larry Gates, Skip Homeier, Gloria Holden, James Dean
Where To Watch: available January 9, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In HAS ANYBODY SEEN MY GAL, Douglas Sirk transports us to the bustling 1920s, where jazz and prohibition reign supreme and the American dream is at its zenith. This film is a beautifully crafted exploration of love, wealth, and happiness, artfully blending drama and comedy in a way that only Sirk can. It’s a delightful cinematic journey through an era that still captivates us today. How I had never seen this film before is beyond me! Sirk has a unique style, and I’ve loved everything I’ve seen that he’s done; this was no exception!

The film's casting is nothing short of brilliant, featuring Rock Hudson, Piper Laurie, and Lynn Bari as they navigate the complex web of relationships influenced by wealth and society as a whole. Hudson's portrayal of Dan Stebbins is particularly magnetic, while Laurie’s Millicent embodies spirited youth. Bari's Harriet Blaisdell caught between her aspirations and her daughter's happiness, adds a rich layer of complexity to the narrative.

Set in the 20s, the story incorporates deception, love, and the allure of newfound wealth. Charles Coburn’s portrayal of the wealthy Samuel Fulton, masquerading as a humble tenant to scrutinize his late love's family, is poignant and laced with humor. His performance greatly enhances the film's narrative depth. The only thing I would have changed in the movie was the tone; I would have liked to have seen a slightly darker take on this all.

Sirk, a director famed for his profound melodramas, infuses HAS ANYBODY SEEN MY GAL with an unexpected lightness, cleverly juxtaposing it with more profound themes. The film challenges the age-old notion that happiness is synonymous with wealth, echoing sentiments commonly found in Frank Capra's works. It’s a Sirk specialty to straddle the line between humor and introspection.

A cameo by James Dean adds a fun element of surprise and intrigue. The film culminates in a satisfying resolution that ties together the intertwined stories of love, wealth, and personal growth. While HAS ANYBODY SEEN MY GAL may not be as widely known as some of Sirk’s later films, it's a shining example of his ability to craft compelling narratives that span multiple genres. The film merges humor with significant social commentary, leaving viewers with a powerful message about the true essence of happiness and fulfillment.

HAS ANYBODY SEEN MY GAL is a timeless film, offering a narrative as relevant and engaging today as it was in the 20s. Its perfect blend of humor, romance, social commentary, dynamic performances, and vibrant setting make it an essential watch for cinema enthusiasts. Sirk’s work in this film is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in capturing the intricacies of human emotion and societal dynamics.

Product Extras:
Brand New HD Master – From a 2K Scan of the 35mm Interpositive
NEW Audio Commentary by Actress Piper Laurie, Moderated by Film Critic/Historian Lee Gambin
FUN ON THE LOT (2008): Piper Laurie and Gigi Perreau Remember HAS ANYBODY SEEN MY GAL
Theatrical Trailer (Newly Mastered in 2K)
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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