Movie spotlight
A comedy of discriminating taste and dirty little secrets. In 1952 England, Nigel, the Earl of Marshwood, woos Hollywood star Miranda, upsetting both Nigel's mother, Countess Felicity, and Miranda's former love fellow Hollywood star Don. Right before the engagement party at Marshwood, Moxie, the Countess's personal maid and best friend, reveals that Miranda is her estranged sister. Crestwell, the Countess's butler, devises a plan - but an inebriated Don's arrival at Marshwood to talk to Miranda causes all chaos to break loose.
In the late 1950s, the aristocratic Marchwood family grapples with scandal when their son, Nigel, announces his engagement to an American Hollywood film star, Miranda. The family matriarch, Lady Marshwood, despises Miranda and plots to uncover secrets from her past to sabotage the relationship. Meanwhile, Nigel's sister, Felicity, finds herself unexpectedly falling for the family's American chauffeur, Don.
Relative Values received a mixed reception from critics. While some praised its witty dialogue and performances, particularly from Julie Andrews, others found the plot predictable and the tone inconsistent, struggling to balance comedy with dramatic elements.
Praised for Julie Andrews' performance and attempts at screwball comedy.
Criticized for a convoluted plot and dated comedic sensibilities.
Seen as a light but ultimately forgettable romantic comedy.
Google audience: Audience reviews for 'Relative Values' are scarce and generally indicate a lukewarm reception, with many finding it a pleasant but unremarkable film.
The film is based on the 1951 play of the same name by Noël Coward, though the screenplay by director John Irving makes significant changes to the story and characters.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources
This probably isn't one of Noël Coward's better plays for me, but Eric Styles has managed to assemble a solid cast to make this adaptation just about watchable. Edward Atterton (Lord Marshwood) has fallen for Hollywood star "Miranda" (Jeann...