We're No Angels (1955)
After yesterday's heaviness, I thought something lighter would be appropriate. We're No Angels is the simple tale of three convicts trying to escape from Devil's Island (French penal colony) on Christmas. Along the way, they become involved with the struggles of the Ducatel family. Three very nice people who do not deserve to be murdered and robbed (initial plans are rarely good ones). As our convicts work to fix the roof, they also learn of the financial troubles that plague the family. Gradually, the convicts decide to help the family have a nice Christmas until Basil Rathbone appears. Rathbone is the Ducatel's cousin and the owner of their store. He's also a despicable human being that can give Scrooge a run for cheapest man alive. Shenanigans ensue with the convicts trying to "fix" everything with some help from their little friend Adolf (the movie happens in 1898).
The comedic elements and scenarios are played to perfection. The dichotomy of these honest people versus crooks who aren't terrible is very fun to watch. Especially when the crooks' first thought is to steal everything for Christmas dinner. The only thing not stolen was the turkey as it was bought with stolen money. At a certain point, the family just stops asking about these strange convicts and where they keep getting the flowers, turkey, and tree. Rathbone is excellent as the villain (per usual) and the convicts do find some of their humanity before leaving the family better off than how they were the previous day.
Rating: 4.5/5
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