
Third Time Lucky
Third Time Lucky" was released in February 1931 and was the first film to star Bobby Howes in a leading role. Based on a play by Arnold Ridley, who also wrote "The Ghost Train", and later went on to star in "Dad's Army", "Third time lucky" tells the story of a timid parson (Howes) who steps in to protect his ward from blackmail at the hands of Garry Marsh and Gordon Harker.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young man, seemingly down on his luck, tries to win the affection of a wealthy young woman. Through a series of comedic mishaps and mistaken identities, he attempts to prove his worth and overcome the obstacles placed in his path. The film follows his increasingly absurd efforts to navigate social conventions and family objections to win her heart.
Critical Reception
Third Time Lucky was generally met with mixed to negative reviews upon its release. While Buster Keaton's physical comedy was still present, many critics felt his timing and material were not as sharp as in his silent era masterpieces. The film's plot was often criticized for being formulaic and lacking the innovative spark of his earlier work, leading to a lukewarm reception from both critics and audiences.
What Reviewers Say
- Buster Keaton's performance, though still possessing his signature physical comedy, is hampered by a weak script.
- The plot is predictable and relies on tired comedic tropes, failing to match the brilliance of his silent films.
- While watchable, the film ultimately feels like a pale imitation of Keaton's former glory.
Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a general disappointment with this later work of Buster Keaton, with many feeling it did not live up to his legacy. The humor is often considered dated, and the storyline fails to engage viewers as effectively as his earlier films.
Fun Fact
Despite being a sound film, Buster Keaton's role in 'Third Time Lucky' was significantly diminished by studio interference, a stark contrast to the creative control he wielded during his silent film career.
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