Heist Gone Wrong in Comedic Catastrophe

Read Time:4 Minute, 36 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Ladykillers (4K UHD)
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Genre: Comedy, Crime
Year Released: 1955, 2024 Kino Lorber 4K
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Alexander Mackendrick
Writer(s): William Rose, Jimmy O'Connor
Cast: Alec Guinness, Peter Sellers, Herbert Lom, Cecil Parker, Danny Green, Jack Warner, Katie Johnson
Where To Watch: available September 24, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: THE LADYKILLERS triumphs as a classic example of British comedy with its clever intertwining of dark humor and sharp societal critique. At the lead of this mischievous plot is Alec Guinness (any time I reference Guinness in a review, I have to mention that I’m a distant relative) as Professor Marcus, who, under the disguise of a quirky musician, plots a grand heist with his eccentric crew. This group, comprising talents like Peter Sellers' jittery Harry and Herbert Lom's intimidating Louis, creates a dynamic that enriches the film’s humor, delivering laughs through innovative, character-driven interactions. Their seemingly perfect robbery plan unravels as the narrative develops, effectively displaying director Alexander Mackendrick's ability to weave tension with whimsy.

Katie Johnson steals the spotlight as Mrs. Wilberforce, the unsuspecting landlady whose gentle and calm appearance and naive demeanor make her the accidental epicenter of the heist. Her portrayal won her a BAFTA, and rightfully so, as she brings an essential warmth and innocence that starkly contrasts with the felonious antics around her. Her quaint home, with its quirky architecture, ideally situated next to a railway, is the perfect backdrop for high-stakes comedy. The film builds to a climax where the criminals’ plans spectacularly fall apart, a testament to William Rose and Jimmy O’Connor’s ingenious script that cleverly lampoons the pretensions of its crooked characters and the standards they exploit.

THE LADYKILLERS' charm lies in the film's effective pacing and editing, which plays a crucial role in enhancing both the comedic and suspenseful elements of the story. The editing aligns with the beats of the narrative, building tension as the plot thickens and accelerating during comedic mishaps to maximize their impact. This careful pacing ensures that viewers are kept on the edge of their seats while still delivering the punchlines at the right moment. The strategic pauses and brisk cuts contribute to the film’s ability to balance its darker themes with moments of fun, making it stand out in the genre of black comedy.

THE LADYKILLERS delves deep into the themes of appearance versus reality. Mrs. Wilberforce's demure exterior masks a surprising resilience, challenging the audience's expectations and adding intrigue to the storyline. Mackendrick’s directorial style ensures the film navigates through its complex plot with seamless timing and precision. The physical space of Mrs. Wilberforce’s confined home visually mirrors its temporary inhabitants' twisted schemes and interpersonal dynamics, making it a central element that ties the film’s darker themes together.

The film stands out as a profound commentary on human behavior and the norms we’ve come to accept, reinforcing its relevance and depth. The stellar ensemble cast each brings a unique flavor that ensures the lasting impact of THE LADYKILLERS on the black comedy genre. Celebrated as the final major project from Ealing Studios, the film is lauded for its refined humor and substantial narrative, securing its place as a beloved classic that entertains while offering biting social critique. The film's charm lies in exploring its characters, especially the seemingly fragile Mrs. Wilberforce, whose depth ensures that THE LADYKILLERS remains a cherished cinematic gem.

Product Extras:
DISC 1 (4KUHD):
2020 HDR Dolby Vision Restoration by StudioCanal
NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historian David Del Valle and Film Historian/Producer Dan Marino (son of NFL legend)
Audio Commentary by Film Historian Philip Kemp
Triple-Layered UHD100 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

DISC 2 (BLU-RAY):
2020 HD Restorations of the Original 1.37:1 and Matted 1.66:1 Versions of the Film
NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historian David Del Valle and Film Historian/Producer Dan Marino (son of NFL legend)
Audio Commentary by Film Historian Philip Kemp
Forever Ealing: Documentary (49:37)
Interview with Allan Scott (10:30)
Cleaning Up The Ladykillers: Featurette (6:07)
Interview with Ronald Harwood (7:15)
Interview with Terence Davies (13:49)
Theatrical Trailer
Dual-Layered BD50 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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