No Time for Comedy

Starring: James Stewart, Rosalind Russell, Genevieve Tobin
Directed by: William Keighley
Rating: Not rated
Genre: Drama, Comedy
1940

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A playwright (James Stewart) crafts a hit play, and marries the play's star (Rosalind Russell). The two begin to have difficulties in their marriage as they struggle to keep their marriage alive.

Review:

Tim: This is a decent enough if not completely forgettable film. The movie has a great deal of talent, but the end result is somehow less than the sum of its parts. This is by no means a bad film, only a puzzling, unexplained mediocre quality to it. While watching, we are at least moderately engaged. The story is interesting, the characters are worth caring about, and the film is shot well. It just adds up to a somewhat lackluster feel.

James Stewart is good in the role, but the character isn't ideal for him, and he is constrained by the character's shortcomings. He is never able to really connect with the audience as he is able to do in his most successful films. He is entertaining and very often funny, but ultimately can't provide the spark this film so desperately needs. The supporting cast is fairly strong, but still cannot provide the contribution that Stewart needed.

No Time for Comedy was adapted from a play. This is not always the easiest leap, from stage to screen. As often happens, something is lost in the translation. I am willing to bet that this is a far better play than it is a movie.

There are some very interesting dynamics and social commentary here. Among the major themes are how fame can drastically change people and how people in love can change and the repercussions that can have on all those involved. No Time for Comedy is decent, but expect to be disappointed.



Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
Ziegfeld Girl, The Stratton Story, The Glenn Miller Story