My high school did this show the year after I graduated and I remember enjoying it very much. It turns out most of my enjoyment came from watching my friends and not necessarily the parts they were playing.
How to Succeed . . . is the story of window washer J. Pierpont Finch (Robert Morse) who uses a How To book to rise to the top of the World Wide Wicket Corporation. Michelle Lee (whom I'm 78% sure is actually a mannequin) plays Rosemary, a secretary and Finch's love interest. The movie is sharp satire and it's full of great characters, including the big boss J.B. Biggly (played by Rudy Valee). As a movie, it's very entertaining. As a movie musical, it's not entertaining enough. The music slows down the action considerably and never liven's things up. Robert Morse, with his gap-toothed grin and droopy eyes, alternates between comic genius and super creepy creep. (Fun Fact: Robert Morse can be seen these days as the big boss at Sterling-Cooper in Mad Men.) Rosemary is officially number one on my list of Dullest Female Lead Roles in a Musical. Also, a couple of my favorite musical numbers weren't even in the movie. So, if you have a chance to see the stage play, then I recommend it.
Fast forward moment: The musical numbers.
Grade: D+
Rewind that! moment: This is definitely the most exciting song in the show, which isn't saying much. This clip wasn't working earlier and I wasn't sure if it was my computer, so sorry if it doesn't work.
But, I prefer this version from The Drew Carey Show.
Champion
4 months ago
2 Wisecracks:
I just watched this fabulous movie on account of loving it when the Cary Imps provided a stellar highschool performance. It was longer than I remembered. But I still love the songs and what the heck is a wicket?
Keep doing this. I love reading your reviews. This one, I'd never heard of.
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