We continue on with our Criterion Collection theme: this time it's spine number 1156; "Arsenic and Old Lace," a 1944 screwball comedy classic, directed by Frank Capra and starring Carey Grant, Priscilla Lane, Raymond Massey and Peter Lorre. Based on a stage play of the same name, this is the story of a dysfunctional, and mildly insane, family who literally have bodies buried in their basement.
We also dive into what "screwball comedies" are exactly, how they came to be, and why they probably don't resonate much with modern audiences. There is definitely one among our party that does not care for them, and that always makes for a lively discussion.
But. . . if you like the idea of murderous little old ladies, Teddy Roosevelt, and Boris Karloff lookalikes, then this may be the film for you!
