(1933)
2.5
Craig Butler
His Double Life is an amiable enough way to pass a little bit of time, although modern audiences are perhaps going to find it a bit too tame. Based upon a story which has been adapted to the stage and to film several times, the plot is one that by now will come across as somewhat predictable and more than a bit farfetched. Credibility, of course, does not have to be a major concern in a comedy, provided that the tone of the piece allows for a bit of a flight of fancy and that the dialogue and characters are engaging enough. Life's dialogue is diverting, but it doesn't sparkle as brightly as one might wish, and the same could be said of its characters. This isn't due to the performers, for both Roland Young and the lovely Lillian Gish turn in worthy performances. Young is occasionally a bit too wan, but Gish's timeless charm more than makes up for his momentary lapses. Arthur Hopkins' direction could be sprightlier in places, but it is not damaging. Overall, it's a pleasant, though not noteworthy, little film.
cast-crew for His Double Life on AllMovie
His Double Life (1933)
