"Of course it isn't only physical! I deeply respect you as a human being!"

Rating: 8/10 (30 July 2003)

Being a fan of Kubrick's for some time before seeing this film I had mixed expectations; Kubrick is known for his savagery and brutality behind the camera. But, could he do a comedy?
I bought this film sometime last year (it came in the Stanley Kubrick collection) and sat down with huge expectations. Although, the first time through I didn't really appreciate it; I thought I'd give it another go to give it a fair chance.
The script is what holds this film up over time, I think. Peter Sellers is an extremely good performer and George C. Scott was great, and often subtle while being surrounded by over the top performers.
The sets and models of the film are, of course, dated. But, at the same time it's nostalgic to me and I enjoyed it. The direction is always top-notch in a Kubrick film, so don't expect too many innovations that you've yet to see from Stanley, because all of those came with two of his other, and I dare say far superior, films; 2001: A Space Odyssey and A Clockwork Orange.
Of course it's funny, but it's subtle humor. If you're a fan of someone getting kicked in the face thinking it's funny -- don't stop here looking for a laugh. If you think Kevin Smith is the funniest director working today -- pass by this one. But if you're a fan of Charles Chaplin and enjoy older, more subtle, humor; give this a look.
Also, riding the bomb out of the plane is one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history -- and I'd long since knew of it before I knew this film existed.
Rating: A-