Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
There's a body in the window seat!
Arsenic and Old Lace is a classic dark comedy that has stood the test of time, delighting audiences with its blend of humor, absurdity, and macabre (one of my favourite words) themes. Joseph Kesselring's 1944 film, directed by Frank Capra and starring Cary Grant as Mortimer Brewster, is a cultural classic.
This wonderful film masterfully blends comedy with macabre (I used it again!) twists, offering a thrilling and hilarious journey alternating between sanity and insanity. The story’s mix of eccentric characters, bizarre situations, and witty dialogue makes it a celebrated work in the genre of farce. Ready to laugh while gasping in surprise?
Mortimer Brewster, a sharp-witted New York critic, ties the knot with Elaine Harper on Halloween day. En route to their honeymoon in Niagara Falls, they make a pit stop in Brooklyn to visit Mortimer’s delightfully quirky aunts, Abby and Martha, as well as Elaine’s father who lives next door. What starts as a simple family visit takes a wild turn when Mortimer discovers his aunts' sinister secret—they're serial killers who genuinely believe they're doing the right thing! Mortimer's encounter transforms into a darkly comedic escapade packed with unexpected thrills and twists.
These doting aunts have been poisoning lonely old men with arsenic-laced elderberry wine as part of what they consider a charitable act, offering their victims peace from a life of solitude. To complicate matters further, Mortimer’s brother Teddy, who believes he is Theodore Roosevelt, assists in burying the bodies in the basement, convinced he is digging locks for the Panama Canal. As Mortimer grapples with this discovery, another brother, the sinister Jonathan Brewster, arrives unexpectedly, accompanied by Dr. Einstein, a shady plastic surgeon. Their arrival adds layers of chaos and threats to the already absurd situation.
Okay, okay, I won’t spill all the hilarious details, but trust me, you’re in for a treat! Let’s just say this movie is like a comedy rollercoaster with twists, laughs, and a sprinkle of absurdity.
Here is a brief overview of the main characters:
Mortimer Brewster (Cary Grant): Mortimer is the center of humor in his quirky family. Picture trying to stay serious while surrounded by affectionate eccentrics! He’s a famous drama critic and newlywed, constantly entangled in odd situations due to his two elderly aunts’ well-intentioned but peculiar acts of kindness. Mortimer’s sharp mind and strong principles are evident as he maneuvers through the strange happenings, adding layers of amusement and intrigue to the tale. His efforts to stay sane and uncover family secrets keep the laughter coming, making him a beloved figure in this charming chaos.
Abby and Martha Brewster (Josephine Hull and Jean Adair): Mortimer’s elderly aunts are central to the film’s dark humor. Their sweet manner sharply contrasts with their murderous deeds, adding layers of complexity and driving much of the comedy. These seemingly kind-hearted women appear to be the epitome of gentility and warmth, always ready with a kind word and a cup of tea. However, beneath their benign exterior lies a chilling penchant for committing mercy killings, which they believe to be acts of charity. This duality makes them fascinating characters, as the audience grapples with their unsettling blend of kindness and malevolence. Their actions not only propel the plot forward but also create numerous opportunities for both tension and laughter, as Mortimer struggles to reconcile his love for his aunts with the horror of their actions.
Teddy “Roosevelt” Brewster (John Alexander): Teddy, who thinks he is Theodore Roosevelt, adds comedic relief with his enthusiastic cries of “Charge!” and belief in the Panama Canal project, highlighting the film's theme of eccentricity. His character, with boundless energy and unwavering devotion to his delusions, provides a stark contrast to the more sinister elements of the plot. Through his antics, the audience can explore themes of identity and reality, all while being entertained by his larger-than-life persona. Teddy’s interactions with other characters often lead to humorous misunderstandings and situations, making him a beloved figure in the narrative.
Jonathan Brewster (Raymond Massey): Jonathan is the central villain of the film, notable for his distorted appearance due to failed plastic surgeries. His interactions with Dr. Einstein heighten both the tension and comedic aspects of the movie. His sinister plans and unyielding ambition drive much of the plot's conflict, adding suspense. Despite his evil nature, Jonathan's relationship with Dr. Einstein enriches his character, as they share instances of dark humour and peculiar camaraderie. Throughout the film, Jonathan remains a powerful and unsettling figure, enhancing the dramatic elements of the story.
Dr. Einstein (Peter Lorre): Dr. Einstein is Jonathan’s nervous accomplice, known for his medical expertise and comic relief. He often reluctantly participates in Jonathan's plans. His bumbling, humorous nature adds balance to the darker parts of the film. Despite his fearfulness and occasionally questionable ethics, Dr. Einstein remains a memorable and endearing presence throughout the movie.
Director: Frank Capra
Supporting cast:
Priscilla Lane: Elaine Harper Brewster
Edward Everett Horton: Mr. Witherspoon
Jack Carson: Officer O’Hara
James Gleason: Lt. Rooney
Grant Mitchell: Reverend Harper
Release Date: September 23, 1944
Production Company: Warner Bros. Pictures, Inc.
Screenplay: Based on the play Arsenic and Old Lace by Joseph Kesselring, as produced by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse (New York, 10 Jan 1941).
Notes of Interest (courtesy TCM):
In the scene where Mortimer Brewster is sitting on a tombstone in the graveyard outside his Aunt's home, one of the headstones behind him reads "Archie Leach". Cary Grant's real name is Archie Leach.
The film went unreleased for 3 years after it was completed, waiting for the Broadway play to finish its run. On stage, Boris Karloff played Raymond Massey's character, Jonathan Brewster, who "looks like Karloff".
Cary Grant donated his entire salary, $100,000, to the U.S. War Relief Fund.
Bob Hope turned down the role of Mortimer Brewster.
Mortimer's repeated phrase at the end of the film declaring the secret of his birth was originally "I'm a bastard!" However, it was demanded that it was changed to "I'm the Son of a sea cook!"
Arsenic and Old Lace features clever conversations, memorable characters, and dark humour. You'll be laughing while enjoying the witty exchanges and unique personalities that make this film unforgettable. With its intriguing storyline and well-crafted scenes, Arsenic and Old Lace keeps viewers entertained from beginning to end. This classic film is perfect for movie night!
Enjoy!
...Jill
The Forks Part…
For this flick I’m featuring my dad’s Whiskey Sours and my mom's famous Date Bread. Known for its yummy flavour and comforting aroma, the bread recipe was so popular it’s heavily stained and had to be taped back together! I've included my dad's special Whiskey Sour mix in place of the laced elderberry Wine.
Snuggle up with these tasty treats while enjoying the timeless comedy
Arsenic and Old Lace. They’re the perfect recipes for a fun movie night! Why not share your retro recipes and most beloved classic films with Flicks & Forks? I’d love to feature your favourites on my Substack site!
Date Bread
Whiskey Sour
Have to agree with Cary. His over the top mugging was too much for me. The sisters were magic, though, as was “Theodore Rosevelt.” Raymond Massey scared the heck out of me!
Excellent business about the whiskey sour! It’s funny that the movie is so beloved, while I’ve read in more than one place that Cary Grant never liked it and thought the humor was too broad.