We're No Angels (1955) Reviews

This morbidly grotesque comedy showcases the extreme artistic range and boundless talents of traditional "tough guys" Humphrey Bogart and Aldo Ray, and the classically-trained Peter Hustinov. The improbable trio seems to genuinely delight in their unapologetically playful characterizations of felonious "cherubs" in this HIGH camp farce. A ridiculous story line, laughable back-lot sets-- and repeated references to throat-slitting, spousal abuse, child rape (!!!!!) and murder via poisonous snake-- are somehow transcended by the stars' magnetic appeal and seamless comedic timing. Enjoyable supporting cast includes Leo Carroll (from TV's "The Man From U.N.C.L.E.") as the bumbling, absent-minded shopkeeper, and the brilliant Basil Rathbone (moviedom's definitive Sherlock Holmes) as the parsimonious millionaire autocrat. Bogie & Co. must have consumed a truckload of liquor while filming this potentially macabre exercise in Theater of the Absurd.
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I enjoyed this movie. I had seen it about 35 or so years ago and when I saw it on the list decided to watch it again. I read the review of someone who was kind of snarky about it. It was not supposed to show how things really were on Devil's Island. It was a story about three supposedly hardened criminals who really had a heart. It was not supposed to give any kind of social message. I suppose now it might be called a 'chick flick'. Good always wins out in the end. It was fun to see these three men again when they were young as well as the other actors. I will have to look up Aldo Ray and see whatever happened to him as he was one of my favorites. He didn't do a lot of movies and probably wasn't the best actor in the world but I sure liked him. Again, this movie lightened up my evening and I was glad I requested it.
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One of my all time favorites. Bogart is so often remembered for his dramatic performances. Watching this movie, you see what great comic timing he had. Brilliant chemistry between the three lead actors. Well worth anyone's time if you're looking for light-hearted entertainment. Note: While set on Devil's Island, the movie is not intended to be documentary or informative
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Just as a note to another reviewer, this film wasn't done to be informative or pass on a social comment....it's a simple 1950's style comedy showcasing Humphrey Bogart and Aldo Ray's normal "tough guy" appearances wrapped in a comedy ... and they pull it off. Peter Ustinov also clownishly charms the screen which is a role also not attributed to him. A film like this is refreshing change from all the "message" films that now flood the screen - it was pure entertainment then as it was today in which you could laugh a little and relax.
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If I wanted to know more about Devil's Island why not try Papillon(sp) and get a real feel for it. Too many back drops and there are poor people in the world that suffer more than these actors ever thought of....good way to test your dvd player.
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