This is a Powell film that should be a must see in many ways. Powell is excellent in playing both the Butler and the Politician in a dual role which is rare casting for him. Set in Budapest Hungary using stock footage only for that setting, Darryl Zanuck Fox production is a middle size feature running a little over 80 minutes. It is well scripted and really Powell gives French actress Annabella a better than average introduction.
Imagine having a great butler as prime minister of a country and then one day finding out on the radio that your butler has just been elected to be your most formidable political rival? While it might sound like satire here, this daring script puts a political spin on which is rare for a 1930's feature film. The film is stocked with good supporting players. Nigel Bruce already seems to have Dr. Watson in character here but without Sherlock to play off.
The romance between the Baroness and Butler is developed slowly and carefully only taking form late in the film. The relationship between the Butler and the Prime minister is unique and welcome as it is obvious from the start the Prime Minister leaves something to be desired after being reelected and promising his subjects only bread. Love the speech sequence where Powell points out his short comings with a bit of humor tossed in.
This film is more entertaining than it has any right to be but the script and the cast make this one much better than it has any right to be. The chemistry between Powell and Annabella is pretty well done because it is not rushed and doesn't seem contrived at all. Budapest, Barons, and all, this feature is more entertaining and well done than many pictures. There is a sublime humor here done with just the right touch.
Imagine having a great butler as prime minister of a country and then one day finding out on the radio that your butler has just been elected to be your most formidable political rival? While it might sound like satire here, this daring script puts a political spin on which is rare for a 1930's feature film. The film is stocked with good supporting players. Nigel Bruce already seems to have Dr. Watson in character here but without Sherlock to play off.
The romance between the Baroness and Butler is developed slowly and carefully only taking form late in the film. The relationship between the Butler and the Prime minister is unique and welcome as it is obvious from the start the Prime Minister leaves something to be desired after being reelected and promising his subjects only bread. Love the speech sequence where Powell points out his short comings with a bit of humor tossed in.
This film is more entertaining than it has any right to be but the script and the cast make this one much better than it has any right to be. The chemistry between Powell and Annabella is pretty well done because it is not rushed and doesn't seem contrived at all. Budapest, Barons, and all, this feature is more entertaining and well done than many pictures. There is a sublime humor here done with just the right touch.