Opening Day: 23/30 September 2006

Synopsis:

Two Struggling musicians witness the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and try to find a way out of the city before they are found and killed by the mob. The only job that will pay their way is an all girl band so the two dress up as women. In addition to hiding, each has his own problems; One falls for another band member but can't tell her his gender, and the other has a rich suitor who will not take "No," for an answer.

Movie Review:

Who would have thought, a film classic that is made more than 45 years ago, would still be such a hit with us now? And unlike many other unnecessary comedies in cinemas now, this one doesn’t even need colour to make us laugh.

Thanks to your friendly film distributor, we can view this fabulous screwball comedy (along with some other cinematic classics) on the big screen.

The 1959 film begins with the infamous 1929 historical event St. Valentine's Day Massacre. Two musicians escape the scene and flee the city before they are killed by the mob. To survive, the duo has to dress up as women and join an all girl band. The confusion begins when one falls for another female band member, and the other has a rich man going after him.

No doubt this plot sounds like one which today’s scriptwriters can come up with, but the difference lies in the treatment of the film. And the credit here goes to Billy Wilder, who has made a thoroughly enjoyable film to perk up the gloomiest day.

The film does not need to resort to unconventional camera angels, fancy editing, bombastic music accompaniment and big majestic sets. With straightforward camera shots, narrative editing, a pleasant jazz score and traditional Hollywood studio sets, Wilder’s steady pacing of the film ensures that each and every viewer will have a good time in the theatre.

No wonder it is the ranked number one on American Film Institute’s 100 Funniest Movie of all time.

Kudos also go to the three main leads: Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon and screen goddess Marilyn Monroe. Curtis and Lemmon play the two musicians who are forced to cross-dress to stay alive. The pair has such perfect chemistry that every line and every move they execute will bring along some hearty laughs from the audience. As for Monroe, what can we say: she is not the icon she is for nothing.

This film is also a must-watch for those who love music in their movies. The many big band scenes will have you tapping your feet to the rhythm. Monroe’s crooning of the heartbreaking “I’m Through With Love” and “I Wanna Be Loved By You” will also immerse you in some musical delight.

The Oscar winner for 1960’s Best Costume Design is also a feast to the eyes, with some really classy outfits worn by the cast. Be it the men’s straightly-pressed suits, or the women’s flowing dresses, they manage to dazzle and impress – in black and white nonetheless.

Other than giving us a good time, we are sure film classics like this are there to teach filmmakers nowadays the true meaning of down-to-earth filmmaking.

So, all you aspiring directors out there, please, go watch and learn.

Movie Rating:

(A very enjoyable classic that reminds us that a good film can stay grounded without boasting of fancy techniques)

Review by John Li