When comedy movies are dated, they often appear much less funny to people in later years. Such is the case with "The Loved One." It retains the satire of the film with its three to four targets. The main spoof is of the funeral business in California. A huge industry had grown up around it by the 1940s. That's the part of the comedy that is most dated and that is time worn. But the satire of British high society living in America, of Hollywood, and of America, as epitomized in and by Californians, are still funny decades later.
One wonders about change over time. As technical progress continues to shrink the world, the distinctions of cultures and societies fade and disappear. The human race seems pointed toward a universal sameness. Should we reach that point, the distinctions that for generations have been the source of much interest, investigation, comedy and humor will be gone. Who would want to live in such a bland state?
Anyway, this film is based on a very clever satire by British author, Evelyn Waugh. He wrote "The Loved One" after a 1947 trip California. He stayed a time in Hollywood to discuss the possible filming of his 1945 book, "Brideshead Revisited."
The plot itself is the funniest thing about this film. Numerous actors of note appear, from cameos to major roles. Robert Morse is the main character around whom the story unravels, but his role has very little real comedy. Jonathan Winters has the major comedy lead, playing two roles as Wilbur and Harry Glenworthy. His businesslike portrayal of Wilbur is somewhat funny. But the best humor in the film comes from Rod Steiger as Mr. Joyboy. In this wildly different comedy character, Steiger shows why he is one of the great actors of the 20th century.
This isn't loud laughter comedy, but the kind that elicits chuckles. Robert Morley provides the last bit of humor. John Gielgud has a significant role but the humor is long past worn out. He is Sir Francis Hinsley, uncle to Morse's Dennis Barlow.
Various cameos range from a little funny to ho-hum. Dana Andrews, Milton Berle, James Coburn, Tab Hunter, Margaret Leighton, Roddy McDowall, Barbara Nichols, Lionel Stander, and Liberace are among the better-known names of the past.
This movie was promoted as having something to offend everyone. I don't know that it quite achieved that even in 1965, but even legitimate mortuaries today shouldn't be offended. The film did have some dark aspects, and crudity in places. Those are still evident as such. Some may enjoy the film in the early 21st century. But many others may find its two hours too slow, or its entertainment rather lame.
Here are some favorite lines. See the Quotes section under this IMDb movie page for more humorous dialog.
Sir Francis Hinsley, "The people here are so kind and generous. They talk entirely for their own pleasure. And they never expect you to listen. Just remember that, dear boy - the secret of social success in this country." Sir Francis Hinsley, pointing out an actor to Dennis, "He usually plays prime ministers or butlers."
Wilbur Glenworthy, "There's got to be a way to get those stiffs off my property."
One wonders about change over time. As technical progress continues to shrink the world, the distinctions of cultures and societies fade and disappear. The human race seems pointed toward a universal sameness. Should we reach that point, the distinctions that for generations have been the source of much interest, investigation, comedy and humor will be gone. Who would want to live in such a bland state?
Anyway, this film is based on a very clever satire by British author, Evelyn Waugh. He wrote "The Loved One" after a 1947 trip California. He stayed a time in Hollywood to discuss the possible filming of his 1945 book, "Brideshead Revisited."
The plot itself is the funniest thing about this film. Numerous actors of note appear, from cameos to major roles. Robert Morse is the main character around whom the story unravels, but his role has very little real comedy. Jonathan Winters has the major comedy lead, playing two roles as Wilbur and Harry Glenworthy. His businesslike portrayal of Wilbur is somewhat funny. But the best humor in the film comes from Rod Steiger as Mr. Joyboy. In this wildly different comedy character, Steiger shows why he is one of the great actors of the 20th century.
This isn't loud laughter comedy, but the kind that elicits chuckles. Robert Morley provides the last bit of humor. John Gielgud has a significant role but the humor is long past worn out. He is Sir Francis Hinsley, uncle to Morse's Dennis Barlow.
Various cameos range from a little funny to ho-hum. Dana Andrews, Milton Berle, James Coburn, Tab Hunter, Margaret Leighton, Roddy McDowall, Barbara Nichols, Lionel Stander, and Liberace are among the better-known names of the past.
This movie was promoted as having something to offend everyone. I don't know that it quite achieved that even in 1965, but even legitimate mortuaries today shouldn't be offended. The film did have some dark aspects, and crudity in places. Those are still evident as such. Some may enjoy the film in the early 21st century. But many others may find its two hours too slow, or its entertainment rather lame.
Here are some favorite lines. See the Quotes section under this IMDb movie page for more humorous dialog.
Sir Francis Hinsley, "The people here are so kind and generous. They talk entirely for their own pleasure. And they never expect you to listen. Just remember that, dear boy - the secret of social success in this country." Sir Francis Hinsley, pointing out an actor to Dennis, "He usually plays prime ministers or butlers."
Wilbur Glenworthy, "There's got to be a way to get those stiffs off my property."