KIND HEARTS AND CORONETS [The Criterion Collection]


A couple weeks ago Diane and I saw The Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Cap’n Bob, Deb, and others pointed out the plot of The Gentileman’s Guide to Love and Murder sounded a lot like Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949). I saw Kind Hearts and Coronets back in the Sixties and had completely forgotten about it. So I picked up this deluxe Criterion Collection edition and watched it. Yes, The Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder follows the basic plot of Kind Hearts and Coronets with some significant changes. The comedy of dispatching the family members standing between our “hero” and the Dukedom is much funnier. And, of course, The Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder is a musical. And, the ending of Kind Hearts and Coronets is NOT the conclusion of A Gentileman’s Guide to Love and Murder.

The Criterion Collection includes extras like the American Ending to Kind Hearts and Coronets, the Original theatrical trailer, a feature-length BBC documentary on the history of Ealing Studios, and a rare, 70-minute talk-show appearance by Alec Guinness from 1977. Very nice box set! GRADE: A

17 thoughts on “KIND HEARTS AND CORONETS [The Criterion Collection]

  1. Deb

    This is one of my favorite films (it feels like an Ealing comedy even if it isn’t). I especially like smoky-voiced Joan Greenwood as the alluring Sybell.

    Reply
      1. george Post author

        Deb, although Kind Hearts and Coronets is an Ealing comedy, A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER is even funnier!

    1. george Post author

      Deb, Alec Guinness playing all the roles of the D’Ascoyne family was clever. And, you’re right about Joan Greewood’s smoky-voice!

      Reply
    1. george Post author

      Bill, I was surprised to find the British ending varied from the American ending. Back in those days, movies shown in America couldn’t end with a Bad Guy benefiting from his actions.

      Reply
    1. george Post author

      Patti, you’re right: both the movie version and the play version are very entertaining. Like you, I’d give the edge to A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER. More comic and fun music!

      Reply
  2. maggie mason

    I’ve seen this, and don’t really remember the ending, so not sure if I saw the UK or USA version. Clearly, it’s time to see it again.

    OT: on my way to LCC so unless easy computer access there, won’t be posting

    Reply
  3. Jeff Meyerson

    Have a great trip, Maggie.

    I saw this probably 40 years ago, and liked it. I agree about Joan Greenwood. I also liked her a lot as Gwendolyn in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST.

    Reply
    1. george Post author

      Jeff, you’re right. Joan Greenwood was marvelous as Gwendolyn in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST. I’m going to have to find a copy of that perormance and watch it again!

      Reply
    1. george Post author

      Beth, I highly recommend the Criterion Collection version. I found it at my local Public Library. Plenty of extra goodies on the second DVD!

      Reply

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