The Gazebo (1959)
7/10
Better than expected with a wacky Glenn Ford
2 September 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I almost didn't watch this, because it sounded too much like a Doris Day/Rock Hudson type flick...which were great at the time, but seem so very dated now. But I thought I'd give it my "first 12 minutes" test. What I found was a genuinely funny and offbeat movie.

The script moves along well in this black comedy (which also happens to be in black and white), and the principal actors do a fine job. Glenn Ford is genuinely goofy (and I mean that in the best sense) here -- playing a rather neurotic television writer. His bumbling and nervousness in the murder scene is a hoot. Debbie Reynolds is perfect as the wife...the subject of some nude photos when she was getting started...resulting in a blackmail plot; and I say that as no fan of Debbie Reynolds.

Carl Reiner does well as the district attorney and best friend, although he doesn't seem very Carl Reiner-ish. And John McGiver plays a very different part here, quite humorously.

I actually chuckled out loud a couple of times here...something I rarely do, even when watching a comedy. It's so rare to see Glenn Ford playing this type of role -- a nervous nelly who is clearly neurotic. And, he does it so well!

This film is certainly worth watching for a good hearty laugh. Recommended.
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