I cannot say I dislike the film version of Sir Noel Coward's greatest comedy.However, I cannot say I love it either. The gravest error was created by the studio. After Coward had sold the film rights to MGM,the studio proceeded to screen test actors. Coward himself along with Original co-star Gertrude Lawrence screen tested for their original roles...AND GOT TURNED DOWN! What we are left with are Robert Montgomery and Norma Shearer,two extremely likeable actors,playing Coward and Lawrence's legendary roles. Montgomery and Shearer are indeed charming,however the edge is missing from Coward's biting,witty humor. They just do not have that extra flair for high comedy that would turn the film from charming to a witty and biting masterpiece. Una Merkle and Reginald Denny actually fair better in their supporting roles...roles that are usually sounding boards for the leads. Overall its an enjoable film..but mediocre Coward.
Review of Private Lives
