After the Thin Man

This isn't a particularly deep movie or a complex mystery film. Nope--the murders aren't really the most important aspect of the film, but are more of an excuse to allow Nick and Nora to meet a lot of kooky characters and have a lot of funny dialog. In fact, I could have easily seen this movie succeed with no mystery whatsoever--just a straight comedy. Myrna Loy and William Powell are great as the Nora and Nick Charles--particularly Powell who had a terrific knack for comedy. Plus, their dog Asta is actually given some wonderful screen time--he's both cute AND funny (unlike many other animal acts). Along for the ride is a young Jimmy Stewart--who, based on the character he plays, still hasn't established himself as an actor--it's interesting to see him playing "against type". This film isn't the greatest film, but is a sure bet for a few laughs and is a good time to be had by the entire family.

I was spurred to watch this one after having seen David Niven and Maggie Smith's spot-on parody of Nick and Nora in 'Murder By Death'. Nick spends most of this one either drinking or drunk, but doesn't let that prevent him from solving the crime of course. Myrna Loy is wonderfully aloof in a fine comic performance. Although it involves murder, the tone is almost exclusively light hearted. The plot was almost a little too complicated, the type of thing that 'Murder By Death' so effectively mocked. It seemed as though the script wanted to make it so that anyone could have been a suspect (one of which is James Stewart in a fun role)which normally would be a good idea, but can make it a little confusing (and I'll admit that I wasn't paying 100% attention, but the light-heartedness seems to almost encourage you not to take it all seriously...which is why 'The Thin Man' movies are so much fun in the first place!)

These wonderful crime comedies are of a different time. The main characters, developed by Dashiell Hammet, are so well drawn and so clever, it's hard not to be embrace the two. Of course, their hedonism and disregard for conventional relationships (some would call sheer honesty) are sometimes a bit much for modern audiences. For me, it was a time that had that black and white edge. When Nick was on a case, despite his sarcasm and flippant glib comments, he was so wise, noting clues that others did not see. Also, there is a wonderful, convoluted plot, with numerous figures as possible suspects. Nick and Nora are always in danger, but, of course, they will eventually land on their feet.

The first "Thin Man" was great, but I like "After the Thin Man" even better. William Powell and Myrna Loy, as Nick and Nora Charles, are the archetype sophisticated couple. No one since has come close. Great casting of the supporting roles fills out the story exquisitely. Wow, could those old studios serve up wonderful acting for all kinds of characters! My favorite is Aunt Katherine, the battle ax to end all battles axes, played by Jessie Ralph; and Henry, the rickety old butler played by, would you believe, Tom Ricketts. As usual, the dialog sparkles. And the story is great-- a nice Dashiell Hammett whodunit with a not-too-complicated plot that leads to a surprise ending. The encounter between Nora's family and Nick -- "Poor Nora!" -- is worth the price of admission. I grin every time I think about it.