Trio

Trio (1950)

Release Date - Oct 10, 1950 (USA - Unknown)  |   Run Time - 88 min.  |   Countries - United Kingdom  |   MPAA Rating - NR
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Review by Craig Butler

Omnibus films are notoriously tricky to pull off, but Trio does so to a large degree. The biggest problem with these anthologies is that too often there is a tremendous gap in the quality between segments. There is a gap in Trio as well, but it's not the gulf that sometimes exists in these situations. It also helps that the film is arranged appropriately, with the first two segments essentially light curtain raisers that build appropriately and help to pave the way for the final sequence. "The Verger," the first piece, is a light, enjoyable piece of comic fluff which essentially depends upon a final line for its pay-off. It's quite well done, with a fine, appealing performance from James Hayter; it doesn't overstay its welcome and is a tasty little appetizer. The second piece, "Mr. Knowall," is also light, but delves somewhat deeper, painting an amusing portrait of a somewhat obnoxious but not unlikable title character, who is shown to have more depth than one might at first expect. Again, leading actor Nigel Patrick is invaluable in the success of the piece. The final segment, "Sanitorium," is by far the longest and the most dramatic. It sets a higher bar for itself than the shorter pieces, and while it doesn't quite reach its goals, it nevertheless is an entertaining and affecting little piece; if it shamelessly pulls at a few heartstrings, it does so to decent effect, and does manage to provide some genuinely touching moments. A young Michael Rennie and a very young Jean Simmons are enchanting, and there's a very nice turn from Raymond Huntley as well.