Grant acting crazy while being sane, while the really crazy people acted sane is to me the central theme of the film. His performance made the film a classic. Who even remembers the film he wanted to do...and I love old movies and have never seen it.
B Nelson oh, lithe Spirits a hilarious movie! Cary Grant would have been excellent in it also. But I’m glad he did Arsenic and Old Lace. It would not have been the classic it is without him.
Totally! I love his reactions, etc. in this movie - that's a big part of what makes it so fun!!!! I love that man - but he was wrong about that for sure!
Kallie Grace yes, I could have done without that “insider knowledge”. But, it may not even be true-Grant May have said it for all sorts of reasons. And, I have a terrible memory, so hopefully I will have forgotten by the next time I see the movie again. I would rather have been told an “ insider “ tip for how to find it free on line lol
Arsenic and Old Lace is one of my top 20 favourite films of all time. Cary Grant's performance was wonderful. I actually appreciated his over-the-top deliveries. It fit perfectly with the story. With all the surrounding insanity that he put up with, it wouldn't have worked had he given a completely straight delivery. This performance raised his stock with so many people. He's my all time favourite actor.
@@tompaulcampbell yeah. If I remember correctly he actually says, "You see... insanity runs in my family (as in the background you hear Aunt Abby and Aunt Martha singing "There is a Happy Land"). It practically gallops!
That's part of what I always liked about him he wasn't just a good-looking leading man he didn't have to take himself serious he had true true comedy chops
Vaudeville experienced actors were the best. The best in acting faded out with those greats. There could be no better training than being a Vaudeville entertainer. Only the best survived the demanding and merciless audiences.
Grant's portrayal of Mortimer reminds me of the slightly toned down Lt. Cmdr. Matt T. Sherman in Operation Petticoat that he would play 15 years later. He could give that look that was just GLORIOUS.
I loved Grant being "over the top" his hyped up anxiety moments are the funniest parts in the movie, like when he's on the phone with "Happy Dale" I still crack up when I watch that scene.
I'm sick and tired of hearing about Cary Grant's "overacting" in this brilliant black comedy. He's absolutely hilarious in it, and his so-called "over the top" performance suits the outlandish material to a tee.
Lorre played so many serious roles, he rarely got a chance to display his exquisite sense of comic timing. The way he slips out the door at the end is perfect!!
@@michaelwertzy9808 True, but still a rare occurrence. I keep thinking of the 'spell' he cast is 'The Raven' (the comedy one): Cartagena delenda est! (Carthage must be destroyed!) Cracks me up every time.
I didn't know that line in the play use the word bastard nice bit of trivia. But I always laugh so hard every time I think about when he's running around yelling I'm a son of a sea-cook to everyone because that's what my dad would say when he was mad at somebody he would call them a son of a sea-cook. So with him telling them he was a son of a sea cook he didn't think it was bad he was meaning for it something to be good because he wasn't related to the ladies that he was a bastard LOL it made him so happy to know that he didn't have insanity and his family just a bit of loose morals for back then. So happy ending he's not afraid of being crazy and ends up with the woman he loves. There has been a couple of true stories about people or places taking in elderly and they kill them but continue to collect the monthly check from a pention or social security. They found people that didn't have families that would be checking up on them. So sad what greed can make people do.
Suzanne Jensen, in the movie and play it was not greed that drove the two aunts but they were helping (in their eyes) poor lonely men from bitter lives.
@@tyronekracht461 I should've put a space between my story about doing it for the money. I was commenting on what he said it was based on a lady that was killing for money and was found guilty. I know the aunts weren't doing it for money they did it because they cared about them. I've watched this movie several times over the years and always thought how strange and funny it is at the same time.
The reason the line was changed was because the Hayes Office censored it. There are lines in the film version of 'Kiss Me, Kate' that were changed, too. (The lyric 'According to the Kinsey Report', for instance, was replaced with 'According to the latest report' in 'Too Darn Hot'.)
Shame that Cary Grant did not like his part in the movie. For me, it is one of his most endearing performances. I am glad he overplayed his bit. It still works.
I think it's great the way it is. I'm glad Capra didn't have time to do more editing, he may have screwed it up! How on earth could you forget to mention Peter Lorre, small part but he was a hoot!
@@hcaz5818 It's fairly accurate to Peter Lorre, too. He was in pretty decent health when this was shot, but a few years earlier, he was absolutely hooked on Morphine due to his appendicitis operation (or at least that's where it started.) I also heard he drank a lot later on, before he died in the mid 60s - but I don't know for sure.
Cary Grant has always been one of my favorite actors, honestly I think he did amazing and I’m glad they left the over acting in because it made it hilarious and even more enjoyable
My father, art directorJohn Beckman (who also worked uncredited on Casablanca and Lost Horizon) mentioned doing some set work for Arsenic and Old Lace. And one of the shots of the house looks suspiciously like a layout sketch I once saw.
Toni Bauer his comedic timing was genius to say the least. The Philadelphia Story is a masterpiece of a film and Cary was sublime in it. His performance in Old Lace was astounding as well. He had to walk a thin line between being funny and shocked and a little crazy to fool us into thinking that he’s a part of this psychopathic family but totally believe that he isn’t at the end. I miss his talents.
I adore Cary, and also this particular flick...not sure quite why, but it actually saddens me immensely to know that this was one of his least favorite roles.
I had a similar reaction. If he downplays the part, I don't think it works as well. You might start focusing on the darker aspects of the story and lose that it's a comedy.
While I can easily see Jimmy Stewart in this role, like others here, I think Cary Grant helped make the movie so memorable. It's kind of a shame Boris Karloff couldn't reprise his role, but unlike the stage play I don't consider him to be the star so it's no big loss. And I will always be a fan of Edward Everett Horton. A memorable voice, a quick wit, wrapped up in a gentle man. I often thought that he (vaguely) resembled my maternal grandfather, but in his demeanor they were as different as salt and sugar.
@@TheJTMcDaniel I am not much of a Tony Randall fan. I remember seeing him in 50s movies and he was okay, but from the tv The Odd Couple and his later tv roles he went downhill in my book. Oddly, he probably played his character on The Odd Couple perfectly, but anybody that whiney and that persnickity (?), would they really have friends? Ever been married?
Cary Grants hyper acting was also supposed to suggest the insanity running in the family included him and starting to show. He even tells Priscilla he should not marry her because of it. (Spoiler alert for anyone whom is living under a rock). Then his relief when he finds out he is not related makes him ecstatic. One of the most charming and funniest movies ever made. Each role played to perfection be every member of the cast.
It’s so interesting hearing how Cary felt about his performance. He was by far the BEST part of the film. His energy was hilarious and he never seemed like he was overacting.
I do love this movie. Especially the competitiveness of Raymond Massey's Johnathan Brewster in regards to the number of murders he had done was equal to that of the old Aunts. Thank You for all the information you gave. The gravestone, the telephone, the goofs. I'll be looking for them next time I see the film.
I would love to be able to watch an alternate version of this movie with Cary Grant acting the way he wanted. I always loved the look on his face in Operation Petticoat when he discovers the pig ("Seaman Hornsby") in Tony Curtis' room. He's absolutely perfect.
I had also heard that Cary Grant was not pleased with his performance in Arsenic and Old Lace, but I think it's the best comedy he ever did, and it's my favorite Cary Grant movie. It is a shame Karloff couldn't be in the movie though.
@@christelheadington1136; yes, he was good in "I was a Male War Bride", but somehow he didn't make a convening French Officer. That slight cockney accent didn't sound much like a French accent. Not enough nasal sound.
Fav moments: When Jonathan & Mortimer race to the window seat, the fight that ensues when the cop didn't want to go down to the basement with Jonathan, he told his boss that he looked like Boris Karloff , and "I'm not a cab driver, I'm a coffee pot". I think I'll put on the DVD. Thanks for the background info.
this was one of my favorite Halloween Time movies my daughter is 5 years old the first time I watched it with her on a double bill with Young Frankenstein
I was told that the original play was supposed to be a horror mystery but the playwrite thought better of it. I may go down as one of the funniest movies ever.
One of my very favorite movies, I think Cary Grant's acting was perfect. Camp, but he had a talent for comedic timing. We didn't expect it to be serious.
Hands down, one of my favorite movies of all time. Full of small but brilliant gems of dialogue and situations. One that comes to mind is when Jonathan is brawling with the cops, and Mortimer is sitting on the stairs wanting to make a call. Jonathan grabs the phones threatening to brain the cops, it's still out of Mortimer's reach so he says, "A little higher please," and Jonathan obliges him. Wonderful movie!!
I can see that! Harold Lloyd was genius! Cary Grant recognized talent in others and gave them credit for their brilliance. He was known to say that the best actor in Hollywood was Mickey Rooney, who in later years became forgotten, but was a true entertaining phenomenon talent. Grant gave him his due and had top respect for his work.
This film is so great my young teens even watched a black and white classic movie with Mom. That’s how great Cary Grants performance is, as well as the entire cast. One favorite moment for me is when Aunt Martha says “me too Mortamer “ and gets her kiss after Aunt Abby, perfection! Loved hearing you share that she had nursed Cary previously. Great video, thank you! I’ll be sharing your work. Happy watching everyone😊
"No, I am not drunk, Madam, but you've given me an idea!" My family loves this movie, and we'll sit down and watch it at least once a year--sometimes twice!
I studied Capra in film class at Northwestern University. Your commentary is accurate and interesting...Great film..I saw the play in Chicago with Jean Stapleton and Marion Ross as the murderous sisters. James MacArthur (Helen Hayes' son) played Mortimer. I have seen His Girl Friday several times and never caught the Archie Leach reference! Thanks, dude, you rock!
IT'S SO PERFECTLY BROOKLYN IN SO MANY WAYS , WITHOUT BEING STEREOTYPED OR CLICHED ! ( p.s. the fictional location in ' moonstruck ' would have taken place a couple of blocks from this fictional location and they overlap )
In another life I spent a year in the Triangle of Death iraq. One of my favorite sergeants from the North Carolina or Mississippi National Guard was the one who lead many of the convoys I was on. He looked so much like Teddy Roosevelt that he played that part often when Arsenic and Old Lace played in his area back in the States.
Just finished watching the movie as I have been cast as Mortimer in a stage production, loved the little Easter eggs and bloopers that were left in. Thanks for you vid.
@@nhma1117 It went great, we performed it as if we were in a radio studio but were dressed the part, 14 sold out shows over three weekends with an appreciative audience who spoke of it highly outside. This led to us being asked to perform it at five old age homes over another three weekends. The funny side was that the girl playing Elaine Harper opposite me was showing her pregnancy by the time we did the old age homes performances, leading to jokes that we needed to get married..
Several family members of mine worked on psychiatric prison hospital wards in Connecticut. My eldest cousin actually cared for one of the sisters the story was based upon. I got to see Cary Grant live when I was in college. Pretty charming chap.
This video brings back so many memories. As a child, I loved this film. Cary Grant's performance was perfect for keeping a young boy of 10-12 years old entertained. In high school, I got the part of Doctor Einstein (played by Peter Lorre). After all the script rehearsing and dress rehearsals were over, we took one evening off before opening night of the production. On that night off, the bad grades on my report card angered my folks so much, that they grounded me right then, forbidding me to be in the play, because they knew how badly I wanted to be. In a day when like it or not you actually did as your parents said, I was heartbroken. Even now while typing this comment, I can hear my voice in Dr Einstein's accent saying, "No Johnny! Not dat! Not de Melbourne Meffod. Tree hours, and he vas as dead as de first von." (To my understudy, Kevin S, bite me!) Lol. Thanks so much for this excellent video on this exceptional movie.
I played Dr Einstein when we performed this at the Liberty Theater in Puyallup, Wa. My 1st play in a theater. A lot of the cast had never seen the movie, including myself, but we all watched it before our first rehearsal. I didn't realize Peter Lorre played MY character in the movie...sooo I did my best German accent and it worked out great!!
I saw this after seeing it’s a wonderful life sitting next to Mr Capra. He walked me over from that theatre over to the theatre where this was playing. It was the first time I had seen either film.
Thank you so much for highlighting A&OL! I played Cary Grant's role in my high school production. It was one of the best experiences I ever had on stage. Thanks for giving us some great insight into it!
Capra was going into the army to make what became the famous "Why We Fight" series of documentaries. He wanted/needed money for his family, so he wanted to make a quick film before he was inducted. He had the Columbia studio boss, Harry Cohen, buy the play, and shot the entire picture in four weeks, then went off to the military.
i appreciate the way you title your videos, it's a soothing inviting feeling verses the frustration I feel at all of the "things you didn't know videos".
I often describe Cary Grant as a very handsome and sophisticated man who wasn't afraid of being 'silly'. This is one of the reasons Cary Grant has always been one of my favorites.
You're right. These facts were completely useless. But what fun to learn them!!! I was totally unaware that Cary Grant didn't care for this performance. His idea that he was "over the top" was probably correct, but wasn't every performance in this film? I mean, that's what I watch it for. Grant's Mortimer seems to fit right in, and that's the point of a movie. You aren't supposed to be aware you are watching a movie, you're supposed to feel like your right there, a PART of the action. Maybe that's why I love fourth wall breaks so much.
Just a note about Peter Lorre’s take as Dr. Einstein. When James Gleason is getting the description of Johnathan Brewster’s accomplice Lorre acts like a man who realizes the jig is up. When he realizes that Gleason’s cop is without a clue he snatches up his suitcase and runs for the door but stops and tries to retain a shred of his disguise but can only manage a silly giggle before running for the hills.
The fact that Cary did not like his role or acting or set, etc underscores his professionalism since he put everything into the role onscreen. It is hard to commit your all to something you personally feel uncomfortable about but he absolutely did.
I actually just learned this today: The scene where Johnny & Dr. Einstein talk on the stairs about murdering Mortimer was thanks to Peter Lorre. It was just going to be shot of the two onscreen, but Peter Lorre said to Frank Capra "Wouldn't it better if we don't see who I'm talking to? Just Johnny's shadow making horrific gestures and the focus is how I'm reacting to them." Frank Capra liked the idea and shot the scene Peter Lorre's way, which ended up in the movie.
This is one of my favorite movies. Thank you for all this wonderful information. So happy Cary Grant was in this movie, he was so funny and I thought his fast pace made it even funnier. NEW SUB
Your video made me smile. I played cousin Teddy in a high school production of Arsenic and this movie has always been one of my favorites. I did not know that Cary Grant was unhappy with his work. In my opinion, the fact that he played the part campy is a great contrast to his more serious roles, and I'm glad it got left that way.
The scene where Einstein and Jonathan are in the basement, and Jonathan's shadow is seen on the wall next to where Einstein sits, was Peter Lorre's (Einstein) idea.
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![30 ชั่วโมงคนเดียว บนรถไฟชั้น 3 โซเวียต [Around The World Ep. 2]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/MlE9boAVqDA/mqdefault.jpg)
I think Cary Grant's 'over acting' kept the energy level of the film up.
Yes!
Totally agree!
Yes this is pure black farce and totally works
I know! It made the movie great. He was so funny in it. I loved his expressions!
Yup. I respectfully disagree with Cary. He was fantastic!
Grant acting crazy while being sane, while the really crazy people acted sane is to me the central theme of the film. His performance made the film a classic. Who even remembers the film he wanted to do...and I love old movies and have never seen it.
B Nelson oh, lithe Spirits a hilarious movie! Cary Grant would have been excellent in it also. But I’m glad he did Arsenic and Old Lace. It would not have been the classic it is without him.
Sorry, that should be Blithe spirit
You missed nothing by not seeing Blithe Spirit -- it is truly awful.
Perfectly said!!
Kinda feels like that's exactly where we've landed, after we jumped the last shark, and it's only cute if its imaginary.
I love this movie! And I think Cary Grant’s over acting is part of what makes it so funny.
Totally! I love his reactions, etc. in this movie - that's a big part of what makes it so fun!!!! I love that man - but he was wrong about that for sure!
Absolutely
Jack Carson's clueless cop, and aspiring playwright, was hilarious, as well.
*Beatrix Poley*
You know what?
I think you're right.
The campiness ( -- is that a word? -- ) kills.
Totally agree!
It makes me sad that it was Cary Grant's least favorite performance since it is one of my favorite movies of his
Me too. 😯 And, mine too. 😀
Kallie Grace yes, I could have done without that “insider knowledge”. But, it may not even be true-Grant May have said it for all sorts of reasons. And, I have a terrible memory, so hopefully I will have forgotten by the next time I see the movie again. I would rather have been told an “ insider “ tip for how to find it free on line lol
@@bilindalaw-morley161 lol Ya me too! I've watched it several times and would love to see it again!
You would think that that’s a movie that he would’ve had fun acting in.
No! What a shame
Arsenic and Old Lace is one of my top 20 favourite films of all time. Cary Grant's performance was wonderful. I actually appreciated his over-the-top deliveries. It fit perfectly with the story. With all the surrounding insanity that he put up with, it wouldn't have worked had he given a completely straight delivery. This performance raised his stock with so many people. He's my all time favourite actor.
I think it gave it a more Stage production feel having him acted that way
@tolfan
And wasn't that wonderful to capture that stage feel on film? Another thing about this movie that I love ... makes is so much campy fun.😊
I have always loved Cary Grant’s performance in this film and find it hysterically fun.
i agree......think all the cast were great but i especially loved peter lorre.....he was brilliant
Anyone who hasn’t seen it do yourself a huge favor and do! It’s brilliant!
I thought I was going to hate it. I was wrong.
Insanity doesn't run in this family, it gallops.
Lol. Brilliant.
One of my favorite lines ever. I’ve been saying it about my own family since I was in high school.
One of my favorite lines in the movie.
You're misquoting it, if you are trying to quote the line.
@@tompaulcampbell yeah. If I remember correctly he actually says, "You see... insanity runs in my family (as in the background you hear Aunt Abby and Aunt Martha singing "There is a Happy Land"). It practically gallops!
May be somehow Cary is refering to his own family? 🙂 His desperate look by saying this is so funny 🤨
Cary Grant was one of very few Hollywood actors who could do a convincing triple-take. he probably learned it when he was in vaudeville.
That's part of what I always liked about him he wasn't just a good-looking leading man he didn't have to take himself serious he had true true comedy chops
Jack Carson was the king of double and triple takes. So fun to watch him in this with Grant.
Vaudeville experienced actors were the best. The best in acting faded out with those greats. There could be no better training than being a Vaudeville entertainer. Only the best survived the demanding and merciless audiences.
Grant's portrayal of Mortimer reminds me of the slightly toned down Lt. Cmdr. Matt T. Sherman in Operation Petticoat that he would play 15 years later. He could give that look that was just GLORIOUS.
I loved Grant being "over the top" his hyped up anxiety moments are the funniest parts in the movie, like when he's on the phone with "Happy Dale" I still crack up when I watch that scene.
I'm sick and tired of hearing about Cary Grant's "overacting" in this brilliant black comedy. He's absolutely hilarious in it, and his so-called "over the top" performance suits the outlandish material to a tee.
He is EXACTLY the farce energy needed from every actor who does AaOL
It was GRANT who didn’t like it. Nearly everyone else liked it.
He was perfect. I can't imagine anyone else in the role.
No mention of another film great, Peter Lorre, as "Dr" Einstein. A perfect pairing with Massey's "Jonathan"
"He looks like......Raymond Massey"!
Lorre played so many serious roles, he rarely got a chance to display his exquisite sense of comic timing. The way he slips out the door at the end is perfect!!
@@HannibalFan52,"We're No Angels" Bogey, Aldo Ray, & P.L.!
@@michaelwertzy9808 True, but still a rare occurrence. I keep thinking of the 'spell' he cast is 'The Raven' (the comedy one): Cartagena delenda est! (Carthage must be destroyed!) Cracks me up every time.
"Where am I?...(lights match and looks at position in window seat) Oh, here I am!
I'm shocked to hear that Cary didn't like his performance. His facial expressions are brilliant. It's a comedy and Cary portrayed Mortimer perfectly
agree but do think Peter Lorre was just brilliant
"I'm not a Brewster. I'm a son of a Sea Cook!" is funnier than the line in the play, "I'm not a Brewster. I'm a bastard."
When my high school did the play and left the bastard line in. Pretty daring for a high school production.
I didn't know that line in the play use the word bastard nice bit of trivia. But I always laugh so hard every time I think about when he's running around yelling I'm a son of a sea-cook to everyone because that's what my dad would say when he was mad at somebody he would call them a son of a sea-cook. So with him telling them he was a son of a sea cook he didn't think it was bad he was meaning for it something to be good because he wasn't related to the ladies that he was a bastard LOL it made him so happy to know that he didn't have insanity and his family just a bit of loose morals for back then. So happy ending he's not afraid of being crazy and ends up with the woman he loves. There has been a couple of true stories about people or places taking in elderly and they kill them but continue to collect the monthly check from a pention or social security. They found people that didn't have families that would be checking up on them. So sad what greed can make people do.
Suzanne Jensen, in the movie and play it was not greed that drove the two aunts but they were helping (in their eyes) poor lonely men from bitter lives.
@@tyronekracht461 I should've put a space between my story about doing it for the money. I was commenting on what he said it was based on a lady that was killing for money and was found guilty. I know the aunts weren't doing it for money they did it because they cared about them. I've watched this movie several times over the years and always thought how strange and funny it is at the same time.
The reason the line was changed was because the Hayes Office censored it. There are lines in the film version of 'Kiss Me, Kate' that were changed, too. (The lyric 'According to the Kinsey Report', for instance, was replaced with 'According to the latest report' in 'Too Darn Hot'.)
Shame that Cary Grant did not like his part in the movie. For me, it is one of his most endearing performances. I am glad he overplayed his bit. It still works.
I think it's great the way it is. I'm glad Capra didn't have time to do more editing, he may have screwed it up! How on earth could you forget to mention Peter Lorre, small part but he was a hoot!
"Please, Johnny, make it the QUICK way!"
@Cliff Moore Whatever it came out great!
Dr. Einstein has always been my favorite part, hilarious that he just operates while totally trashed haha
@@hcaz5818 It's fairly accurate to Peter Lorre, too. He was in pretty decent health when this was shot, but a few years earlier, he was absolutely hooked on Morphine due to his appendicitis operation (or at least that's where it started.) I also heard he drank a lot later on, before he died in the mid 60s - but I don't know for sure.
Lorre IS great in this part.
I love how Cary Grant wasn't afraid of Jonathan at all. He is super sarcastic right to his face!
Cary Grant has always been one of my favorite actors, honestly I think he did amazing and I’m glad they left the over acting in because it made it hilarious and even more enjoyable
One of my favorite movies, for so many reasons, but especially for the set. I love the atmosphere it gives and all the swirling leaves.
Oh no, Grant was genius in this role. It is a seasonal favorite of my entire family!
Insanity runs in my family; it practically gallops. This has to be my most favorite line in any movie I've ever seen.
My father, art directorJohn Beckman (who also worked uncredited on Casablanca and Lost Horizon) mentioned doing some set work for Arsenic and Old Lace. And one of the shots of the house looks suspiciously like a layout sketch I once saw.
Well, THAT'S pretty cool.
Cary may not have been happy with it, but it's one of the roles that made him beloved.
Archie Leach was the most handsome man of his time. 🥰 and any time for that matter.
Salieri Amadeus he was right up there, for sure. And a fine actor.
Toni Bauer his comedic timing was genius to say the least. The Philadelphia Story is a masterpiece of a film and Cary was sublime in it. His performance in Old Lace was astounding as well. He had to walk a thin line between being funny and shocked and a little crazy to fool us into thinking that he’s a part of this psychopathic family but totally believe that he isn’t at the end. I miss his talents.
And he aged so beautifully.
A bit of trivia: In an an obvious hat-tip to Grant, Archie Leach is the name of John Cleese’s character in A Fish Called Wanda.
@@graytart And Simon and Garfunkel pay homage to him in the song, Fakin' it
I’m playing Mortimer Brewster in our school’s production of it. Great show, great movie.
Break a leg!
hey i did too today was my last show
fnafplay How was your experience?
@@beyblade71 good show turned out amazing
Ynko I have the production coming up at my school too but I play Witherspoon :3
I love Cary Grant's "over-the-top" performance!
I adore Cary, and also this particular flick...not sure quite why, but it actually saddens me immensely to know that this was one of his least favorite roles.
I had a similar reaction. If he downplays the part, I don't think it works as well. You might start focusing on the darker aspects of the story and lose that it's a comedy.
The adlib from Cary Grant to Peter Lorre about hamming it up, as they stumble down the stairs
While I can easily see Jimmy Stewart in this role, like others here, I think Cary Grant helped make the movie so memorable.
It's kind of a shame Boris Karloff couldn't reprise his role, but unlike the stage play I don't consider him to be the star so it's no big loss.
And I will always be a fan of Edward Everett Horton. A memorable voice, a quick wit, wrapped up in a gentle man. I often thought that he (vaguely) resembled my maternal grandfather, but in his demeanor they were as different as salt and sugar.
Karloff did do it in an abridged Hallmark version in 1962. Tony Randall was Mortimer. It was on Broadway HD last time I looked.
@@TheJTMcDaniel
I am not much of a Tony Randall fan. I remember seeing him in 50s movies and he was okay, but from the tv The Odd Couple and his later tv roles he went downhill in my book.
Oddly, he probably played his character on The Odd Couple perfectly, but anybody that whiney and that persnickity (?), would they really have friends? Ever been married?
Used to drive by Horton's place all the time. He had a big place and acreage just north of the Ventura freeway in the west San Fernando Valley.
Stewart would have been closer to Mortimer's character.
Cary Grants hyper acting was also supposed to suggest the insanity running in the family included him and starting to show. He even tells Priscilla he should not marry her because of it. (Spoiler alert for anyone whom is living under a rock). Then his relief when he finds out he is not related makes him ecstatic. One of the most charming and funniest movies ever made. Each role played to perfection be every member of the cast.
The soldiers yelling charge is hilarious 😂
Agreed!
One of my most cherished and loved films ever. The "Its an Wonderful Life" of Halloween.
You're right. I think of watching "Harvey" at Christmas, even though it is not a Christmas movie. It's probably more in line with EASTER.
Even though I only had a minor role (Mr. Witherspoon) in our High School's production of it, it was one of the funnest plays that I had ever been in!
I love this movie to bits. I think my favorite moment is when Aunt Abby looks in the chest and says, “Now who can that be?”
It’s so interesting hearing how Cary felt about his performance. He was by far the BEST part of the film. His energy was hilarious and he never seemed like he was overacting.
What a marvellous mini doc you've made my friend.
One of my favourite films.
Thank you so much for doing this.
I wish you rainbows.
I do love this movie. Especially the competitiveness of Raymond Massey's Johnathan Brewster in regards to the number of murders he had done was equal to that of the old Aunts. Thank You for all the information you gave. The gravestone, the telephone, the goofs. I'll be looking for them next time I see the film.
"You got twelve, they got twelve... the old ladies is just as good as you!"
One of the wittiest and best comedies ever. Could not be more perfect.
I would love to be able to watch an alternate version of this movie with Cary Grant acting the way he wanted. I always loved the look on his face in Operation Petticoat when he discovers the pig ("Seaman Hornsby") in Tony Curtis' room. He's absolutely perfect.
As the old saying goes, "It all comes out in the wash". I enjoyed this movie thoroughly, and always will.
I hate that Cary hated this, I fell madly in love with him from this movie.
Yes, me too; this movie is the one that made me a fan of his.
THE MOVIE IS A MACABRE MASTERPIECE OF CHARM AND WIT ! ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT !
I had also heard that Cary Grant was not pleased with his performance in Arsenic and Old Lace, but I think it's the best comedy he ever did, and it's my favorite Cary Grant movie. It is a shame Karloff couldn't be in the movie though.
I love Cary in roles like this! Another of my favorites of his is Topper.
Waverly Nichols And “Holiday”, and “ Bringing Up Baby”.
AND "I was a Male War Bride."
@@kathyeubanks5524; I never cared for “Bringing Up Baby". I really don't care for Katharine Hepburn.
@@christelheadington1136; yes, he was good in "I was a Male War Bride", but somehow he didn't make a convening French Officer. That slight cockney accent didn't sound much like a French accent. Not enough nasal sound.
Fav moments: When Jonathan & Mortimer race to the window seat, the fight that ensues when the cop didn't want to go down to the basement with Jonathan, he told his boss that he looked like Boris Karloff , and "I'm not a cab driver, I'm a coffee pot". I think I'll put on the DVD. Thanks for the background info.
This is one of my favorite Cary Grant performances/movies... crazy to think that he didn't like what he was doing.
this was one of my favorite Halloween Time movies my daughter is 5 years old the first time I watched it with her on a double bill with Young Frankenstein
I was told that the original play was supposed to be a horror mystery but the playwrite thought better of it. I may go down as one of the funniest movies ever.
One of my very favorite movies, I think Cary Grant's acting was perfect. Camp, but he had a talent for comedic timing. We didn't expect it to be serious.
Would have loved to have seen Karloff in that role.
Columbia tried to get him, but he was tied up doing the role on Broadway.
It was written for him.
Me too, but I think that Massey was a satisfactory substitute.
Hands down, one of my favorite movies of all time. Full of small but brilliant gems of dialogue and situations. One that comes to mind is when Jonathan is brawling with the cops, and Mortimer is sitting on the stairs wanting to make a call. Jonathan grabs the phones threatening to brain the cops, it's still out of Mortimer's reach so he says, "A little higher please," and Jonathan obliges him.
Wonderful movie!!
Raymond Massey is great but just imagine Karloff in it!
Karloff did get to finally reprise his role -- on television, around 1960, with Tony Randall in the Cary Grant role.
@@joelkweskin8545 thanks for the info!
I bet Karloff was too expensive.
Cary Grants over-the-top performances were still great fun!!! C'mon, an overly dramatic DRAMA CRITIC!!!
Cary Grant modeled his character on silent film comedian Harold Lloyd.
I think you're thinking of Bringing Up Baby. Mortimer Brewster is nothing like Harold Lloyd.
Of course you are correct! Thanks. Apologies to everyone. @@rackinfrackin
I can see that!
Harold Lloyd was genius!
Cary Grant recognized talent in others and gave them credit for their brilliance. He was known to say that the best actor in Hollywood was Mickey Rooney, who in later years became forgotten, but was a true entertaining phenomenon talent. Grant gave him his due and had top respect for his work.
I love Arsenic and Old Lace even with all the overacting and goofs.
just wish there was more Priscilla Lane , I love her !
This film is so great my young teens even watched a black and white classic movie with Mom. That’s how great Cary Grants performance is, as well as the entire cast. One favorite moment for me is when Aunt Martha says “me too Mortamer “ and gets her kiss after Aunt Abby, perfection! Loved hearing you share that she had nursed Cary previously. Great video, thank you! I’ll be sharing your work. Happy watching everyone😊
Keep watching the classics!
Boris Karloff was great but I can't imagine anyone other than Raymond playing Johnny. He was superb. One of my favorite movies.
I saw a stage production in the 90's with Tom Baker in that role. He was brilliant.
Karloff later played it on TV in a GE Theatre production, I believe... Lorre was in it and one of the aunts was Helen Hayes.
Massey was a poor substitute for Boris Karloff. He lacks the levels Karloff could bring.
This is my favorite comedy of all time! I always forget it takes place during Halloween. Now you've given me another reason to watch it!
Cary's "overacting" MAKES this film !
One of my favorite movies of all time. I love Cary Grant.
"No, I am not drunk, Madam, but you've given me an idea!"
My family loves this movie, and we'll sit down and watch it at least once a year--sometimes twice!
Thank you! one of my faves! Can you do Sleepy Hollow, A Christmas Story and Planes, Trains and Automobiles? TY! awesome videos!
I studied Capra in film class at Northwestern University. Your commentary is accurate and interesting...Great film..I saw the play in Chicago with Jean Stapleton and Marion Ross as the murderous sisters. James MacArthur (Helen Hayes' son) played Mortimer. I have seen His Girl Friday several times and never caught the Archie Leach reference! Thanks, dude, you rock!
Thoroughly enjoyable job of narration, including choice of what to highlight. Professional job.
IT'S SO PERFECTLY BROOKLYN IN SO MANY WAYS , WITHOUT BEING STEREOTYPED OR CLICHED ! ( p.s. the fictional location in ' moonstruck ' would have taken place a couple of blocks from this fictional location and they overlap )
I absolutely adore this film , Cary Grant was perfect for role. In my opinion he was an underrated actor. Such a handsome man too!😍
In another life I spent a year in the Triangle of Death iraq. One of my favorite sergeants from the North Carolina or Mississippi National Guard was the one who lead many of the convoys I was on.
He looked so much like Teddy Roosevelt that he played that part often when Arsenic and Old Lace played in his area back in the States.
Just finished watching the movie as I have been cast as Mortimer in a stage production, loved the little Easter eggs and bloopers that were left in.
Thanks for you vid.
how did your production go?
@@nhma1117 It went great, we performed it as if we were in a radio studio but were dressed the part, 14 sold out shows over three weekends with an appreciative audience who spoke of it highly outside.
This led to us being asked to perform it at five old age homes over another three weekends.
The funny side was that the girl playing Elaine Harper opposite me was showing her pregnancy by the time we did the old age homes performances, leading to jokes that we needed to get married..
Several family members of mine worked on psychiatric prison hospital wards in Connecticut. My eldest cousin actually cared for one of the sisters the story was based upon. I got to see Cary Grant live when I was in college. Pretty charming chap.
did she tell any stories about her?
We did this play in High School. Brings back old memories.
What a fun memory👍🏼❤
Me too. I was Teddy😊
@@bgriffininsd I was the priest and two dead bodies
I've dreamed of living in the Brewster house since I was a little girl! Minus the dead bodies in "the Panama Canal," of course.
That’s a good idea for a video... best houses from classic movies. I’ve always liked the one in “The Magnificent Ambersons”.
This video brings back so many memories. As a child, I loved this film. Cary Grant's performance was perfect for keeping a young boy of 10-12 years old entertained. In high school, I got the part of Doctor Einstein (played by Peter Lorre). After all the script rehearsing and dress rehearsals were over, we took one evening off before opening night of the production. On that night off, the bad grades on my report card angered my folks so much, that they grounded me right then, forbidding me to be in the play, because they knew how badly I wanted to be. In a day when like it or not you actually did as your parents said, I was heartbroken. Even now while typing this comment, I can hear my voice in Dr Einstein's accent saying, "No Johnny! Not dat! Not de Melbourne Meffod. Tree hours, and he vas as dead as de first von." (To my understudy, Kevin S, bite me!) Lol. Thanks so much for this excellent video on this exceptional movie.
I played Dr Einstein when we performed this at the Liberty Theater in Puyallup, Wa. My 1st play in a theater. A lot of the cast had never seen the movie, including myself, but we all watched it before our first rehearsal. I didn't realize Peter Lorre played MY character in the movie...sooo I did my best German accent and it worked out great!!
Always loved this film Cary Grant great actor
I saw this after seeing it’s a wonderful life sitting next to Mr Capra. He walked me over from that theatre over to the theatre where this was playing. It was the first time I had seen either film.
Wow!!!! what year and where were the theaters??? what an AMAZING experience!
Thank you so much for highlighting A&OL! I played Cary Grant's role in my high school production. It was one of the best experiences I ever had on stage. Thanks for giving us some great insight into it!
This is my favorite Cary Grant movie, I wish I could tell him that his performance made the movie, I loved it!! Thank you for uploading this!
Borris Karloff was a class act one of the good guys who of course played a ton of villains ps overacting was exactly what the role of Mortimer needed
Capra was going into the army to make what became the famous "Why We Fight" series of documentaries. He wanted/needed money for his family, so he wanted to make a quick film before he was inducted. He had the Columbia studio boss, Harry Cohen, buy the play, and shot the entire picture in four weeks, then went off to the military.
This movie is one of my favorites. I have watched it over again during the past several years. The over acting helps to make it so memorable.
saw this in the early 70's think I was in my early teens it had me rolling round the place.
i appreciate the way you title your videos, it's a soothing inviting feeling verses the frustration I feel at all of the "things you didn't know videos".
I often describe Cary Grant as a very handsome and sophisticated man who wasn't afraid of being 'silly'. This is one of the reasons Cary Grant has always been one of my favorites.
One of my favourite films. I'm very glad Cary Grant played the part, as I cannot see anyone else successfully in the role.
one of my favorite Halloween movies
Amy Archer looks like Ellen Corby who played "Grandma" on "The Waltons".
This was a great insight into a classic film. Thank you! 👍
You're right. These facts were completely useless. But what fun to learn them!!! I was totally unaware that Cary Grant didn't care for this performance. His idea that he was "over the top" was probably correct, but wasn't every performance in this film? I mean, that's what I watch it for. Grant's Mortimer seems to fit right in, and that's the point of a movie. You aren't supposed to be aware you are watching a movie, you're supposed to feel like your right there, a PART of the action. Maybe that's why I love fourth wall breaks so much.
This is one of my favorite Cary Grant movies, and one of my all-time favorite movies.
Just a note about Peter Lorre’s take as Dr. Einstein. When James Gleason is getting the description of Johnathan Brewster’s accomplice Lorre acts like a man who realizes the jig is up. When he realizes that Gleason’s cop is without a clue he snatches up his suitcase and runs for the door but stops and tries to retain a shred of his disguise but can only
manage a silly giggle before running for the hills.
The fact that Cary did not like his role or acting or set, etc underscores his professionalism since he put everything into the role onscreen. It is hard to commit your all to something you personally feel uncomfortable about but he absolutely did.
A perfect gem of a play and movie. One I can watch again and again. Thanks for a very interesting video.
I actually just learned this today: The scene where Johnny & Dr. Einstein talk on the stairs about murdering Mortimer was thanks to Peter Lorre. It was just going to be shot of the two onscreen, but Peter Lorre said to Frank Capra "Wouldn't it better if we don't see who I'm talking to? Just Johnny's shadow making horrific gestures and the focus is how I'm reacting to them." Frank Capra liked the idea and shot the scene Peter Lorre's way, which ended up in the movie.
This is one of my favorite movies. Thank you for all this wonderful information. So happy Cary Grant was in this movie, he was so funny and I thought his fast pace made it even funnier. NEW SUB
Your video made me smile. I played cousin Teddy in a high school production of Arsenic and this movie has always been one of my favorites. I did not know that Cary Grant was unhappy with his work. In my opinion, the fact that he played the part campy is a great contrast to his more serious roles, and I'm glad it got left that way.
The scene where Einstein and Jonathan are in the basement, and Jonathan's shadow is seen on the wall next to where Einstein sits, was Peter Lorre's (Einstein) idea.
This will always be one of my favorites and is loved by my three sons who I played it for when they were kids. Cary Grant was superb!
One of my favorite comedy movies of all time. I watch this at least once a year.
Thank you so much for this video. These days, so many people have never even heard of this movie and it's sheer genius
Thanks for posting this video. I played Mortimer in our city's local production of A&OL. It was a blast, but exhausting. Thanks, again.