Parker Ballentine (Bob Hope) is a famous and acerbic theater critic. When his wife, Angela (Lucille Ball), decides to write a play, Parker is not in the least bit enthusiastic nor supportive. When she finishes, she asks him to read it and give her his honest opinion. He does and tells her he hates it. So imagine his surprise when a famous producer decides to put on her play!! In a definite conflict of interest, Parker agrees to see her play and review it....and marital fireworks result.
Like one of Hope and Ball's previous films, "The Facts of Life", "Critic's Choice" isn't exactly a comedy. While Hope spouts a variety of one-liners instead of real dialog (something I really dislike after a while), the emphasis is not on comedy but is more like a drama. This isn't a complaint...more an observation. And, it's interesting that Hope's character is rather petulant...a real departure for him.
Although the film apparently was a box office failure, I actually thought it was pretty good. But as I mentioned above, it wasn't a comedy and Hope played a guy who was a bit of a jerk....and that likely turned audience members off to the film back in 1963. An interesting departure for Hope...and a film that is worth your time.
Like one of Hope and Ball's previous films, "The Facts of Life", "Critic's Choice" isn't exactly a comedy. While Hope spouts a variety of one-liners instead of real dialog (something I really dislike after a while), the emphasis is not on comedy but is more like a drama. This isn't a complaint...more an observation. And, it's interesting that Hope's character is rather petulant...a real departure for him.
Although the film apparently was a box office failure, I actually thought it was pretty good. But as I mentioned above, it wasn't a comedy and Hope played a guy who was a bit of a jerk....and that likely turned audience members off to the film back in 1963. An interesting departure for Hope...and a film that is worth your time.