Not even the elements of a future "Death Takes A Holiday" and "Harvey" can save this piece. Why? The film is pretty morbid when you think about it.
Lionel Barrymore, that usual irascible character, does display a heart here but the ending where Death shows that it still has the upper hand is not very pleasant. This film is certainly not suitable for children.
The film would have been far better if it had been all about that wicked aunt, so similar to Margaret Hamilton, in "The Wizard of Oz," attempting to get the nephew after the tragic death of his parents. Instead, the film takes on new meanings with Cedric Hardwicke, who portrays death in its usual way.
Everyone literally starts going and you have to wonder why this was their fate!
Despite what the writer wanted to convey, you certainly can't have that feel good feeling at the film's end.
Lionel Barrymore, that usual irascible character, does display a heart here but the ending where Death shows that it still has the upper hand is not very pleasant. This film is certainly not suitable for children.
The film would have been far better if it had been all about that wicked aunt, so similar to Margaret Hamilton, in "The Wizard of Oz," attempting to get the nephew after the tragic death of his parents. Instead, the film takes on new meanings with Cedric Hardwicke, who portrays death in its usual way.
Everyone literally starts going and you have to wonder why this was their fate!
Despite what the writer wanted to convey, you certainly can't have that feel good feeling at the film's end.