6/10
Worthwhile for any fan of Burns.
10 April 2019
You can tell that George Burns is really enjoying himself immensely, here: he gets to play not only his signature role of God, but the Devil as well. Old Scratch, passing himself off as a super talent agent, gives aspiring musician Bobby Shelton (Ted Wass) a real Devils' deal. In no time, Bobby is having great success. But Bobby is not happy, because this also means saying goodbye to to the great love of his life, Wendy Shelton (Roxanne Hart). God and Satan ultimately have a show-down poker game in Vegas as they fight for Bobbys' soul.

Written by Andrew Bergman, this third entry in the series doesn't contain a lot of comedy fireworks. It only really comes to life the more that that old fountain of youth Burns is exploited for his full comic potential. He's a joy, although it is interesting that "Oh, God! You Devil" is played more straight, and for more pathos, than one might expect.

A top notch cast brings to life a variety of colourful characters: Ron Silver, Eugene Roche, James Cromwell, Robert Picardo, Robert Desiderio, John Doolittle, Jason Wingreen, Susan Peretz, Arthur Malet, etc. Silver is especially funny as a music industry insider. Wass actually delivers a very appealing and sympathetic performance, and naturally one actually cares about whether his rock star will be redeemed.

But it's Burns fans will be in Heaven, as the veteran star lights up the screen whenever he's around.

Six out of 10.
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