As Smart A Comedy As It Is Stinging As A Satire

Rating: Null/10 (13 May 2020)

As smart a comedy as it is stinging as a satire, To Be or Not to Be makes a mockery of the Nazi threat with its sharp writing & slick direction, and keeps alive the viewers' interest with its expertly timed wit & cleverly placed twists to succeed as a thrilling & amusing black comedy that has comfortably stood the test of time over the years.
Directed by Ernst Lubitsch, the narrative treads a complex route yet is able to retain its balance for the most part and only gets better as plot progresses. It isn't an easy premise to pull off but Lubitsch knows when & where to dial back, and directs it with gusto. And equally impressive is the clever script, deftly juggling hilarity with solemn drama.
Further assisting the picture is the focused camerawork & intelligent editing but the best contribution comes from the excellent performances from its brilliant ensemble who make the story gripping and characters worth investing into. Carole Lombard & Jack Benny shine in their roles, playing their part with flair, and are finely supported by the rest of the cast.
Overall, To Be or Not to Be has aged beautifully and is amongst the better examples of its genre. Often steps away from jumping into the realm of excessive farce & total absurdity, this black comedy knows what lines to not cross and is brought to life with charm & elegance. As delightfully captivating as it is deliriously funny, Lubitsch's film is definitely worthy of your time & money.