It seems like quite a few Cary Grant movies have been getting upgraded lately. One of the all-time great thrillers, North by Northwest, recently got a masterful 4K restoration, as did the 1942 comic-mystery The Talk of the Town. Lesser known than those two classics is Mr. Lucky, a charming romantic comedy featuring Grant doing what he does bestâŠwhich is being Cary Grant.
During World War II, fast-talking gambler/conman Joe Adams (Grant) is trying to avoid the draft while looking to get-hold of quick cash for his casino ship, which is docked in New York. He assumes the identity of one of his dead partners, becoming Joe Bascopoulos, but is unsuccessful raising money. Then he meets Dorothy Bryant (Laraine Day), whoâs in charge of a war relief organization. Joe proposes putting together a charity casino night for an upcoming fundraiser, in which he and his boys would provide the games and equipment with the promise of raising thousands of dollars. In reality, he plans on absconding with the winnings afterwards.
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"You might wanna wait a few minutes before going in there." |
Mr. Lucky immediately establishes a light, breezy tone, with amusing dialogue and playful performances. Grant isâŠwell, Cary Grant, which is just the type of persona Joe needs to make him lovable, even when heâs swindling others (most of them actually deserve to be duped). As Dorothy, Day is lovely and engaging, first as a funny foil, then as Joeâs (sort-of) partner-in-crime. Also enjoyable is Alan Carney as âCrunk,â Joeâs beleaguered right-hand man forced to take up crochet on his bossâ behalf (a great running gag).
The story is needlessly protracted during the final act, with a comparatively serious (and violent) clash between Joe and Zepp, as well as a bit more melodrama then the film really needed. But until then, Mr. Lucky offers plenty of fast-paced, fast-talking fun. Though not one of Cary Grantâs more iconic roles, heâs nevertheless in fine form here.
EXTRA KIBBLES
2 RADIO BROADCASTS - Lux Radio Theater with Cary Grant & Laraine Day; Screen Directorâs Playhouse with Cary Grant and H.C. Potter.
TRAILER
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