How to Murder a Rich Uncle
How to Murder a Rich Uncle

How to Murder a Rich Uncle

1957Movie79 minEnglish

A broke British nobleman targets his Canadian uncle, but other relatives get in the way.

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IMDb6.5/10
Director: Robert DayGenres: Comedy, Crime

Plot Summary

A financially strapped nephew, desperate for an inheritance, concocts a scheme to murder his wealthy and eccentric uncle. However, his plans are repeatedly thwarted by the uncle's surprising resilience and the interference of other family members also eyeing the fortune. The nephew finds himself in a constant battle of wits, resorting to increasingly absurd methods to achieve his goal, only to be outsmarted at every turn.

Critical Reception

The film was met with a mixed to positive reception, with critics often highlighting its dark comedic elements and the performances of its cast, particularly Charles Coburn. While not a major box office success, it found a niche audience who appreciated its quirky premise and satirical undertones.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its dark humor and witty dialogue.
  • Charles Coburn's performance as the indomitable uncle was a standout.
  • Some found the plot predictable, but the comedic execution was generally appreciated.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but those available often note the film's amusingly morbid premise and the enjoyable performances, particularly from the lead.

Fun Fact

The film was based on the novel 'The Gentle Ax' by Philip Atkinson and Reginald Forsythe.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Nigel Patrick and John Paxton have done quite a neat job with Daix' play about an uncle - in this version, a wealthy Canadian - called "George" (Charles Coburn) who comes to Britain to visit his landed, but impoverished family headed by Pat...