By Benito Rakower, Ed.D
Many people regard this as their favorite film. Its flawless wit, brilliance and acting never stale nor seem dated. It shares with “Casablanca” the virtue of repeated viewings, each with the original freshness.
Set in Edwardian England, it recounts the methodical manner in which an ignored and rejected member of an aristocratic family plots his revenge. He does this to secure his legitimate place in the line of succession. That, of course, means eliminating everyone who stands in his way.
Essentially, the film recasts Shakespeare’s “Richard III” into a modern comedy of manners. That the greatest English film comedy could be based on a criminal enterprise is itself an astounding tour de force. It is impossible not to relish the polish, refinement, and poise of the villain/hero. The film is also a stunning portrait of what makes the English “English”.
Dr. Rakower will teach a six-week course, “The Sense of the Ridiculous in Film,” starting on Thursday, May 16 at 1 p.m.
To register, click here.
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