Fast-Paced, Fiercely Funny Political Parody

Read Time:4 Minute, 16 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
One, Two, Three (Special Edition) (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 1961, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 55m
Director(s): Billy Wilder
Writer(s): Billy Wilder, I.A.L. Diamond, Ferenc Molnár
Cast: James Cagney, Horst Buchholz, Pamela Tiffin, Arlene Francis, Howard St. John, Leon Askin, John Banner, Liselotte Pulver, Hubert von Meyerinck
Where To Watch: available now, order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Billy Wilder's ONE, TWO, THREE encapsulates the energy of Cold War Berlin through a satirical lens, blending fast-paced humor with pointed political critique. Led by James Cagney’s portrayal of C.R. "Mac" MacNamara, the film transitions from corporate comedy to international intrigue thanks to the seasoned director. Initially overlooked, this classic has matured into a sharply appreciated mirror of societal and ideological absurdities, entertaining and educating with a balanced hand.

In ONE, TWO, THREE, Wilder crafts a narrative that starts straightforwardly enough: MacNamara, a high-flying executive for Coca-Cola, dreams of conquering the Eastern world with American soda. The unexpected responsibility of overseeing his boss' rebellious daughter, Scarlett (Pamela Tiffin,) sidetracked this ambition. The plot thickens and spirals out of control when she falls for and secretly marries a staunch communist, turning MacNamara's world upside down. The ensuing chaos provides a fertile ground for Wilder to skew the pomp and circumstance of American capitalism and Soviet communism.

Cagney shines as MacNamara, whose tireless scheming and dynamic presence anchor the movie’s wild narrative shifts. His performance, rife with rapid deliveries and quick-witted repartees, exemplifies the actor’s ability to dominate the screen. Cagney turns the complex screenplay into a one-person showcase of comedic talent, navigating through a script rich with clever jabs and ironic punchlines. The infamous line "Napoleon failed, Hitler failed, Coca-Cola will succeed!" captures the essence of the film’s irreverent take on global ambitions.

Filming during the turbulent early 60s posed unique challenges for Wilder, particularly with the Berlin Wall's erection impacting production and adding an unplanned backdrop that intensified the film’s thematic divisions. Despite these obstacles, the creative team’s determination to replicate iconic locales like the Brandenburg Gate ensured the setting remained an integral part of the storytelling, imbuing the film with an authenticity that complements its narrative ambitions.

ONE, TWO, THREE's initial reception was tepid. Its humor did not fully land, with audiences still coming to terms with post-war realities and Cold War tensions. However, as perspectives shifted, the film's foresight and bold commentary gained recognition, securing its place as a pioneering piece of cinematic satire.

Supporting roles from Tiffin and Horst Buchholz enrich the central conflict. Tiffin’s Scarlett provides a spirited counterpoint to the ideologically driven males, and Bholz’s portrayal of Otto Ludwig Piffl adds depth to the ideological exploration. The diverse cast, including memorable performances by German actors like Hanns Lothar, brings Wilder’s satirical vision to life, ensuring the humor resonates across cultural and temporal boundaries.

The visual contrast between East and West Berlin is starkly portrayed, with production design meticulously highlighting the ideological differences through aesthetic choices. These visual cues deepen the film's satirical elements, framing the Cold War’s ideological battles within a vividly realized setting that is both a battleground and a character in its own right.

ONE, TWO, THREE represents Wilder's directorial genius. It blends smart, biting humor with social commentary that cuts to the core of the absurdity of geopolitical conflicts. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to entertain while providing insightful reflections on the human condition, wrapped in a cinematic package that is as intellectually engaging as it is entertaining.

Product Extras:
Audio Commentary by Film Historian Michael Schlesinger
Billy Wilder and Volker Schlondorff discuss ONE, TWO, THREE (3:01)
Billy Wilder on Politics and ONE, TWO, THREE (6:05)
Theatrical Trailer
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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