On Approval is a very funny British comedy from 1944, one of those drawing room affairs that is 95% style and just enough substance to keep it hanging together. I much preferred it to The Ideal Husband, and politely suggest that Miramax consider a remake.
It is worth a look if for no other reason than it is one of only six movies blessed with Beatrice Lillie--and the only talkie in which she had a starring role. She is more than well-met by the other three leads: Googie Withers, Roland Culver, and Clive Brooks (who also directed and produced).
The featherweight plot involves Ms. Lillie's invitation to her devoted and impoverished suitor (Culver) to come up to her vacation house (on a remote island, of course), where they could live as man and wife--except at night--so she could determine if he will be a suitable husband. At the last minute her millionairess friend (Withers) and the Duke, desperate for a rich bride, join them. The servants leave in outrage at the impropriety, the only way off the island is by rowboat, and there is a poodle and a piano.
While the plot may sound routine, this is an extremely original little film. There is an extended dream sequence (Ho!) that really ought to be added to the Great Screen Moments list for that category; I can't believe I've never heard of it before. The montage and voiceover at the beginning is a refreshing start. And how many movies use a negligee as a flag of peace?
It is a real treat to see Beatrice Lillie as something other than that spooky woman in Thoroughly Modern Millie, but all the performances are note perfect; the four leads all deliver their quips with a delicate venom that must be hardcoded in the English DNA.
I can't remember how I came across the name or why I added it to my Netflix queue, but it was a happy accident. I don't think it will be easy to find at your local video store, but if you happen upon it on AMC or TMC don't miss it.
