It’s time to look at a comedy mystery starring Kim Novak and Jack Lemon from 1962. This is The Notorious Landlady blu-ray review which has not yet had a UK release but can be obtained via the US release and is region free. The casting seems excellent but what about the story? Let’s find out…
- The Notorious Landlady (1962)
- USA Import
- Genre: Comedy / Mystery
- Directed by Richard Quine
- UK Rating N/A
- Discs: 1
- Released By Sony Pictures
- Blu-ray Released: 8 December 2020
Plot
When American diplomat William Gridley (Jack Lemmon) arrives in London, he needs to find somewhere to live. He checks the newspaper and spots a room for rent at Carly Hardwicke’s house. Upon meeting Carly (Kim Novak) he finds himself falling in love with her. However she seems to be hiding something and furthermore she seems to be under surveillance by the police.
Style / Direction
The Notorious Landlady (1962) was directed by Richard Quine whilst the cinematography was handled by Arthur E. Arling. Quine does a fabulous job of concealing the true nature of events which results in the viewer being constantly confused about the real motive of Kim Novak’s character. It’s really well done and suits the genre perfectly.
Music / Audio Effects
The music is comes from George Duning.
Acting / Characters
The chemistry between Jack Lemmon and Kim Novak is perfect and really is at the heart of the film’s success. The supporting cast is also fabulous with the likes of Fred Astaire and Lionel Jeffries bringing further comedic situations.
Jack Lemmon is as you might expect really funny, he plays an American diplomat William Gridley London seeking somewhere to live. However it’s Kim Novak whose performance really shines through. This is largely because her character of Carly Hardwicke is a far more complex one. She’s a landlady with a secret.
Cast
- Kim Novak as Carlyle ‘Carly’ Hardwicke
- Jack Lemmon as William ‘Bill’ Gridley
- Fred Astaire as Franklyn Ambruster
- Lionel Jeffries as Inspector Oliphant
- Estelle Winwood as Mrs Dunhill
- Maxwell Reed as Miles Hardwicke
- Philippa Bevans as Mrs Agatha Brown
- Doris Lloyd as Lady Fallott
- Henry Daniell as the Stranger
- Ronald Long as Coroner
- Richard Peel as Sergeant Dillings
- Dick Crockett as Detective Carstairs
- Ottola Nesmith as Flower Woman
- Bess Flowers as Courtroom Spectator
- Scott Davey as Henry
- Ross Brown as Boy
- Mary O’Brady as Mrs Oliphant
Conclusion: The Notorious Landlady (1962) Film Review
If you’ve never seen this film I highly recommend giving it a look at certain you won’t regret it. It’s funny, romantic and a murder mystery all rolled into one.
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Conclusion: The Notorious Landlady Blu-ray Review
I’ve have zero issues with the picture quality it’s excellent clean print with perfect colours. The only downside right now is the film is yet to receive a UK blu-ray release meaning you have to obtain the US region free version plus there are no extras included except for the theatrical trailer.
The Notorious Landlady (1962) Blu-ray
The Notorious Landlady has not had an offical UK blu-ray release. However it can be picked up region free via Amazon. Always check the version you are purchasing will play on UK players.
The Amazon links on this page are affiliate / associate links. By buying through the links we may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price you pay.
Popcorn Cinema Rating:
The Notorious Landlady (1962)
MOVIE RATING: MUST SEE
BLU-RAY RATING: EXCELLENT
POPCORN CINEMA: RECOMMENDED
The Notorious Landlady (1962) Trailer
For those of you yet to see the film I’ll leave you with a little taster…
Clip NOT be representative of the blu-ray version
That concludes The Notorious Landlady blu-ray review, I’m aiming to review more classic movies soon. What’s next? Check back soon…
Summary: The Notorious Landlady (1962) Blu-ray Review
Movie title: The Notorious Landlady (1962)
Movie description: A funny, romantic murder mystery
Duration: 123 mins
Director(s): Richard Quine
Actor(s): Kim Novak, Jack Lemmon, Fred Astaire, Lionel Jeffries
Genre: Comedy, Mystery
- Movie Rating
- Blu-ray Picture Rating
- Extras
Summary
Kim Novak and Jack Lemmon are fabulous in this wonderful romantic comedy mystery film!
Pros
Kim Novak / Jack Lemmon Excellent Story
Cons
No Official UK Bluray Release
