Special Review
This review was requested by Discord user TechTune. If you'd like to join the server, click the button below. Visit DiscordIn 1949, the British company Waddingtons manufactured the board game Cluedo, a play on “Clue” and “Ludo” meaning “I play”. Originally designed by musician Anthony E. Pratt, the game was a hit and Parker Brothers licensed it in the US. In the early 1980s, actor turned director Jonathan Lynn had made a name for himself with the series Yes Minister. In 1983, producer Jon Peters had a meeting with Lynn about a potential project: a film based on Clue. Though skeptical, Lynn was sold on Peters’ pitch, so he flew out to Los Angeles to meet with John Landis. Lynn worked with Landis on developing the script, but Landis couldn’t direct it because he signed onto Spies Like Us. Despite having no experience directing films, Lynn agreed to direct and set out to bring this comedy to life. Clue saw its theatrical release on December 13, 1985.
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Synopsis
In 1950’s New England, a group of people is invited to a secluded mansion for a supposed dinner party. They’re greeted by the butler Wadsworth (Tim Curry) and the maid Yvette (Colleen Camp) and each given a fake name. The group includes Colonel Mustard (Martin Mull), Mrs. White (Madeline Kahn), Mrs. Peacock (Eileen Brennan), and Professor Plum (Christopher Lloyd). There’s also Mr. Green (Michael McKean) and Miss Scarlet (Leslie Ann Warren), and each of them is being blackmailed. Turns out the one responsible is Mr. Boddy (Lee Ving), who ends up getting killed under mysterious circumstances. Other victims soon arise including The Cook (Kellye Nakahara), a motorist (Jeffrey Kramer), and a singing telegram girl (Jane Wiedlin). With each of the guests having their own motive for the murders, everyone suspects everyone of being the killer. Who is the real killer, and how is this mystery going to end?
Review
At the time of its release in December of 1985, Clue was both a critical and commercial disappointment. In the years following its release, the film has developed a huge cult following, and I can see why. For one, the ensemble cast is made up of some of the best comedic actors of the time. Tim Curry is one of the film’s major highlights, delivering his lines with tons of wit and energy. On top of being absolutely stunning, Leslie Ann Warren is also fun as the conniving yet somewhat dimwitted Miss Scarlett. Madeline Kahn (Blazing Saddles) also shines as the quietly mysterious Mrs. White, who especially shines in her flames monologue. Christopher Lloyd, Martin Mull, and Michael McKean are pretty enjoyable acting either as ravenous horndogs, utter buffoons, or nervous wrecks. Though she can get somewhat annoying with her constant screaming, Eileen Brennan also has some funny moments.
The production design is remarkable, with the sound stages looking just like a real old mansion you could live in. The score by Mel Brooks regular John Morris gives it a chilling mood and adds to the murder mystery feel. At slightly over 90 minutes, the movie moves at a fairly decent pace, though there are a few slow spots. Also, while many of the jokes land thanks to the delivery, some of the humor doesn’t quite work. There’s also an over-reliance on slapstick humor, which will either be enjoyable or predictably dull depending on your taste. Of course, the film is best known for its multiple endings gimmicks, which ended up hurting it. Given that any one of them could be the true ending, the film doesn’t really have a definitive conclusion. Overall, though it comes off somewhat disjointed, Clue is still a fairly enjoyable watch if nothing else.
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