There are a few funny moments but I didn't care for any of the characters. Rather tedious.

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"A class can be taught comparing British and American manners using only Kind Hearts and Coronets and The Family Jewels." - Ed Gonzalez

Amusing, stiff upper lip British comedy of its time. However the film is driven along by a spoken narrative which is a bit tiresome and the film drags some what, waiting for all the D'Ascoyns to be got rid off, I was glad when 3 were killed off in quick succession.

Not a perfect job, but for what it is proposed to do, and considering the technical resources of time, is a good movie. And Alec Guinness playing eight different characters, it's incredible.

Brilliant, understated British humor. Dennis Price in the lead role is solid, but the real fun of the movie as far as the actors comes in Guinness playing several different characters. Hamer's writing and direction play the action perfectly, as each of the killings gets funnier and funnier. The film takes a while to get its footing, but once it does, it doesn't let up.

I thought it was slightly boring, and the jokes were so outlined that I almost never laughed. Maybe just one of those that becomes worse as times change. The whole playing-8-parts Alec Guiness-thing didn't strike me as a fun move, although he did a good job. Not like Strangelove or something, though.

A typically reserved attitude prevents this from becoming anything more than mild amusement for me. The obvious highlight is Guinness, who occasionally achieves a moment of hilarity.

Perhaps the finest of all British film comedies, this movie features a superb ironic performance by Dennis Price, memorable support from luscious, smoky-voiced Joan Greenwood, and a justly celebrated eight-person portrait gallery from Alec Guinness. The first person narration is wittily written and expertly delivered by Price, and the Edwardian costumes--particularly the gowns worn by the elegant Hobson and the sultry Greenwood--are gorgeous.

Thoroughly amusing and enjoyable with Dennis Price giving an impeccable performance as a man who adapts to murdering with the most blasé attitude to all the death he causes. Alec Guinness ~is~ a chameleon.

Damn funny. Price and Guinness are equally great.

#225

I chuckled occasionally but most of the humor was lost on me, I think. Alec Guinness makes this worth a watch, though.

I'm not sure if it's the subtle dark humor, the mild irreverence, the impeccably witty script, or the sight of Alec Guinness in drag, but this movie had me grinning the entire time. Guinness is delightful in his multi-role performance and Price is a marvel. The story is compelling from start to finish, with the final fifteen minutes completely living up to the promising setup. A fabulous movie.

i find it more 'clever' than actually 'funny,' but boy is it clever. great cinematography and acting helps.

This film's delightfully sardonic narration is an exquisite counterpoint to the rather direct action unfolding on screen. Guinness' multiples roles are not overplayed, and so enhance rather than distract from the humerous narrative. Price, on the other hand, lends his character an uncanny charm that allows the audience to fall in love with him despite his foibles. The films refusal to compromise character development for humour benefits both its dramatic and its comedic elements.

An impeccably written and utterly deadpan black comedy. Dennis Price and Alec Guinness (in his several different roles) are superb.

"Kind hearts are more than coronets, and simple faith than Norman blood." tennyson. a truly funny and wonderful dark comedy. guinness is remarkable in his multiple roles but price holds it all together with his wonderful portrayal of louis mazzini. 1/2 star deduction for the unfortunate racial epithet. strongly recommended.

Watching Alec Guinness playing 8 roles is simply amazing. The humor is quite profound, but there are even some hilarious laugh out loud gags.

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