jelinek-20124
Joined Aug 2017
Badges2
To learn how to earn badges, go to the badges help page.
Reviews17
jelinek-20124's rating
This film certainly is not the dud it's reputed to have been, but it has several things working against it in my opinion.
First of all, by the time this film was released, screwball comedies were no longer as popular or effective as they once were in the 30s. This marital farce offers nothing that hasn't been seen before in the genre.
Secondly, although Greta Garbo tries valiantly, she really isn't a comedic actress. Garbo plays against type here, an intriguing idea for sure, but it doesn't work. Now, if Katherine Hepburn had starred, for example, the role would've been more effectively played. And it certainly would've be very funny seeing her attempt to play the uninhibited twin sister, since she's never played such a sexy character.
Thirdly, the movie goes on for much too long. Some chopping of extended bickering scenes would've greatly improved the pacing and enjoyment for this viewer. And that dancing scene goes on for an eternity. Also, there's far too many characters slowing things down. Is Roland Young's character really necessary? Ruth Gordon's character adequately represents Melvyn Douglas' competing New York job/life.
Two-faced Woman could've been more effective and funnier if these issues had been addressed. Unfortunately, they weren't and Garbo fans are left with a less-than ideal swan song.
First of all, by the time this film was released, screwball comedies were no longer as popular or effective as they once were in the 30s. This marital farce offers nothing that hasn't been seen before in the genre.
Secondly, although Greta Garbo tries valiantly, she really isn't a comedic actress. Garbo plays against type here, an intriguing idea for sure, but it doesn't work. Now, if Katherine Hepburn had starred, for example, the role would've been more effectively played. And it certainly would've be very funny seeing her attempt to play the uninhibited twin sister, since she's never played such a sexy character.
Thirdly, the movie goes on for much too long. Some chopping of extended bickering scenes would've greatly improved the pacing and enjoyment for this viewer. And that dancing scene goes on for an eternity. Also, there's far too many characters slowing things down. Is Roland Young's character really necessary? Ruth Gordon's character adequately represents Melvyn Douglas' competing New York job/life.
Two-faced Woman could've been more effective and funnier if these issues had been addressed. Unfortunately, they weren't and Garbo fans are left with a less-than ideal swan song.