(1961)
3.5
Craig Butler
While the 1961 film version of Fanny lacks the subtlety and delicacy that mark the original Marcel Pagnol trilogy (and the Harold Rome songs that adorned the stage play that is this version's direct source), it is still a charming and affecting motion picture. Considering that it has a cast that is largely Continental, it's a bit of a surprise that the film has such a marked "Hollywood" feel to it. This is presumably due to director Joshua Logan, who at times overemphasizes the plot points and simplifies the emotional underpinnings of the tale. This may rob the film of a degree of nuance, but the directness also has its benefits, creating several powerful scenes and moving sequences. Charles Boyer received an Academy Award nomination for his carefully calibrated performance as Cesar, and the combination of strength and gentleness he brings to the role is quite effective. Maurice Chevalier, while overplaying slightly in some instances, is also quite good, and the tenderness he conveys in his scenes with Fanny is quite lovely. Leslie Caron is a compelling Fanny, full of sadness and resigned melancholy. If Horst Buchholz is a bit wan as Marius and Lionel Jeffries is annoyingly mannered, but neither performance damages the film. Jack Cardiff's camera captures the beauty of Marseilles, and makes good use of a slightly unreal palette of colors. Sweet and engaging, Fanny is a very pleasant bauble.
releases for Fanny on AllMovie
Fanny (1961)
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June 17, 2008 |
