I have been a Hitchcock fan for years yet had never stumbled on this early classic. Although several posters have commented that this film can't keep to a genre and seems to be all over the place, I disagree. RICH AND STRANGE is strictly comedy, albeit quite dark at times. It is Hitch's most British of satires and with an adventure setting to boot.
A young couple goes off on a world trip after being advanced some inheritance money. The adventure starved office worker husband, seeking to sail the world, finds he can barely survive crossing the English channel and the subservient housewife willing to sacrifice all for her beloved quickly finds another when left alone for a few days.
The ensuing travels shift the two from spectators in Paris to participants in the middle east to victims in the far east. It all proves they belong together. Among the classic Hitchcock touches of dark humour are the indignities of transportation and a cat who rightfully believes he belongs on the dining room table.
Some scenes contain primitive experimental camera techniques that are quite funny when you think about it. The "look left, look right" Paris travel montage, the drunken scenes and the play on the number 19 are quite unique and funny in their right.
I think steak and kidney pudding and a predictable life will do just fine from now on.
A young couple goes off on a world trip after being advanced some inheritance money. The adventure starved office worker husband, seeking to sail the world, finds he can barely survive crossing the English channel and the subservient housewife willing to sacrifice all for her beloved quickly finds another when left alone for a few days.
The ensuing travels shift the two from spectators in Paris to participants in the middle east to victims in the far east. It all proves they belong together. Among the classic Hitchcock touches of dark humour are the indignities of transportation and a cat who rightfully believes he belongs on the dining room table.
Some scenes contain primitive experimental camera techniques that are quite funny when you think about it. The "look left, look right" Paris travel montage, the drunken scenes and the play on the number 19 are quite unique and funny in their right.
I think steak and kidney pudding and a predictable life will do just fine from now on.