“Well, I guess I’ll break the ice…I mean, I’ll be the one to get the ball rolling … I mean, I'm used to being a hostess … it's an integral part of my life as the wife of a … oh, I forgot we're not supposed to say who we really are. But, oh well, I mean, I have no idea what we're doing here, but I'm very intrigued and, oh my, this soup is delicious isn't it?”
Some may be aware of this iconic monologue, but if you aren’t, get a clue! This speech was performed by the legendary Eileen Brennan in my favorite film of all time, “Clue.” A silly, spooky, smart take on the board game of the same name, this film has influenced my sense of humor ever since watching it for the first time as a child and is my biggest recommendation for a funny and mysterious film for the season.
While visiting our aunt in Knoxville, in her downtown studio apartment, my brother, cousin and I were shown the ginormous library in the city. We each were allowed to check out one thing each, none of us chose books, just movies. And one random choice changed my life forever. That weekend, my cousin and I watched the rented DVD of “Clue” at least three times, and that was just the start of my admiration for the film.
Released in 1985, “Clue” was not that popular at the time it was released. It originally had three different endings and it was random which ending you saw in your theater. People found that aspect confusing, but I personally think it is genius and allows for more fun. The gimmick of having different endings is reminiscent of the gimmicks that horror movie directors from the 50s and 60s would add to draw more crowds to movie theaters. Obviously, it didn’t work for “Clue” at the time, but it has gained a cult following over the years.
The film features each of the playable characters from the original board game, but the silly names like “Colonel Mustard” are used as aliases rather than their actual names.
Speaking of the characters, each suspect is distinct and each performance should be praised. To start, Tim Curry is the perfect lead as the butler, almost our narrator of the film. Christopher Lloyd gives a concerning and subtle take on the Professor Plum character.
The stars of the show, however, are the women in this film. Madeline Kahn as Mrs. White, Lesley Ann Warren as Miss Scarlet, Colleen Camp as Yvette, the maid, and the aforementioned Eileen Brennan as Mrs. Peacock. They each have distinct characteristics and clever one-liners that have me laughing the whole time.
Kahn as Mrs. White is my favorite due to her performance as the macabre widow with zany quips and dry humor. Her iconic “flames on the side of my face” monologue is one that sticks with you. If you enjoy dark comedies, fun mysteries, and incredible character acting, then this film is for you. Also if you enjoyed “Knives Out”, “Clue” was a direct influence on that modern mystery.
Standard reporter Taylor Moore can be reached at (931) 473-2191.
