The Grass Is Greener is a 1960 British romantic comedy film directed by Stanley Donen and starring Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr, Robert Mitchum, and Jean Simmons. The story revolves around an English earl and his wife who open their stately home to the public, including a Texas oilman.
Plot
The Grass Is Greener is a romantic comedy film that tells the story of an English earl and his wife who open their stately home to the public, including a Texas oilman. The film stars Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr, Robert Mitchum, and Jean Simmons. The movie is known for its witty dialogue and the performances of the lead actors. The plot revolves around the interactions between the four main characters, who are all very different from each other. The film has been positively reviewed by critics and is considered a classic comedy of manners. While the film was initially considered too talky, it has a sharper script than critics gave credit for back in the day.
Trailer
Cast
Main Cast:
- Cary Grant as Cecil Wyatt, an American millionaire
- Deborah Kerr as Hilary Rhyall, Cecil's sophisticated British wife
- Robert Mitchum as Charles Delacroze, a charming Argentine cattle rancher
- Jean Simmons as Lady Desirée "Desi" Delacroze, Charles' beautiful and flamboyant wife
Supporting Cast:
- Moray Watson as Lord Granville Rhyall, Hilary's wealthy and snobbish brother
- Trevor Sellers as Oliver Cromwell, Cecil's loyal butler
- Joan Benham as Mrs. Bates, the Rhyalls' housekeeper
- John Ruddock as Reverend Arthur Hutton
- Reginald Beckwith as Mr. Pettigrew, a British lawyer
- Patrick Macnee as Dr. Reynolds
- Alexander Davion as Count Romanoff
- Peter Jones as Major Millington
- Ursula Jeans as Baroness Von Schraeder
- Peter Haddon as French Ambassador
- David King-Jones as American Ambassador
- Roger Delgado as Argentine Gaucho (uncredited)
Director - Stanley Donen
Writer - Hugh Williams and Margaret Vyner
Box Office Gross - $6,000,000
Distributor – No information
Genre – Romantic and Comedy film
Release date - December 23, 1960
Theme
The theme of The Grass Is Greener revolves around the idea that people often perceive what others have as better than what they have, leading to a struggle with commitment and a desire for something more. The film explores the concept of the "grass is greener syndrome," which involves a struggle with commitment that impacts relationships, career choices, geographic living, and more. The movie highlights the importance of being present in the moment and appreciating what one has, rather than constantly seeking something better.
Reception
The 1960 film The Grass Is Greener received mixed reviews. While it has been praised for its witty script and the beauty of the English countryside, some critics found the film to be flat and questioned the believability of the characters. Cary Grant's portrayal of an English lord and Deborah Kerr's role as an unfaithful wife were particularly criticized, although Jean Simmons was noted for fitting her part well. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr, Robert Mitchum, and Jean Simmons, and despite its mixed reception, it is still considered worth watching for fans of the actors.
Production Challenges
The Grass Is Greener received mixed reviews upon its release in 1960, with some critics finding it too talky and others praising the witty dialogue and performances of the lead actors. Over time, the film has developed a following and is considered a classic comedy of manners. The movie is known for its exploration of the "grass is greener syndrome" and its message about the importance of appreciating what one has. While the film may not be a masterpiece, it is an entertaining romantic comedy that has stood the test of time.
Settings
The Grass Is Greener was filmed in various locations around London, including Isleworth, West London. The grand Rhyall estate featured in the movie is Osterley Park House, which is located in Isleworth. The house is an elegant Elizabethan mansion that was transformed by Robert Adam between 1760 and 1780. Osterley Park House has appeared in several other films and TV shows, including "The Dark Knight," "The Duchess," and "Mansfield Park." The estate is a popular location for filming due to its grandeur and historical significance.
Trivia & Fun Facts
- The film was based on a play of the same name by Margaret Vyner, which was first performed in 1956.
- The movie was directed by Stanley Donen, who was known for his work in classic comedy films.
- The film stars a star-studded cast, including Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr, Robert Mitchum, and Jean Simmons.
- The movie was released on December 23, 1960, and grossed $6,000,000 at the box office.
- The film has developed a following over the years and is considered a classic comedy of manners.
- The movie explores the concept of the "grass is greener syndrome" and its impact on relationships, career choices, and geographic living.
- The film was shot in various locations around London, including Isleworth, West London, and Osterley Park House.
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