A Choice of Coward: Blithe Spirit
A Choice of Coward: Blithe Spirit

A Choice of Coward: Blithe Spirit

1964Movie73 minEnglish

Adapted from a play by Noel Coward, Charles and his second wife Ruth, are haunted by the ghost of his first wife, Elvira. Medium Madame Arcati tries to help things out by contacting the ghost.

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IMDb7.0/10
Director: David GreeneGenres: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance

Plot Summary

Charles Condomine, a successful mystery novelist, is researching his next book and needs inspiration for a character. He arranges a séance with the eccentric medium Madame Arcati. However, the séance accidentally summons the ghost of his first wife, Elvira, who promptly begins to sabotage his marriage to his second wife, Ruth. Charles finds himself caught between the living and the spectral, desperately trying to appease both women while keeping his sanity intact.

Critical Reception

The 1964 television adaptation of Noël Coward's 'Blithe Spirit' was generally well-received for its faithful adaptation of the witty play and its strong comedic performances. While perhaps not reaching the same iconic status as earlier film versions, it was appreciated for its charming portrayal of spectral shenanigans and Coward's timeless dialogue.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its witty dialogue and clever premise.
  • Appreciated for capturing the farcical humor of Noël Coward's original play.
  • The performances were often highlighted as a strong point, particularly the actors navigating the supernatural elements.

Google audience: Information not readily available for this specific television adaptation.

Fun Fact

This 1964 television adaptation was produced by the BBC and featured a cast that included Stanley Holloway, a veteran actor known for his roles in films like 'Brief Encounter' and 'My Fair Lady'.

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