When it comes to English actors, Kenneth Moore has always been on my list of favorites. He has that breezy, likable quality that makes you almost immediately like him and believe him in whatever role he assays. The 39 Steps is no different. Moore is breezy, likable, humorous, devilishly charming, and always a bit classy no matter what situation he is thrust into. Here, yes, it is a bit absurd to think he does all he does in this film in coat and tie(for the most part). He never looks ruffled or unkempt. He remains classy - but, hey, so did Hitchcock's stars. Speaking of Hitch - this film is a pale do-over in comparison to his 30's film. Did anyone really expect this to be better when they sat down to watch it? I didn't. I got what I expected...and a bit Moore. Ralph Thomas is a more than adequate director who directed many of the "Doctor" series films and the Miranda sequel Mad about Men just to name a few. He follows the original film fairly closely, and admittedly. does not go for many inventive or risky choices, but he does well with what he has - well-enough to create a very entertaining film. The real plus of this movie, other than Moore's presence, is the wonderful character acting throughout. Many have very small roles but make the most of them. How about Brenda de Banzie as a somewhat cougar-like woman on the prowl(so to speak). She is hilarious and still beautiful. The small cameo by Joan Dickson was very cute. How about James Hayter as the question man? Very solid. Sid James(from the Carry On movies) has a nice little bit. Add to this the beautiful yet somewhat stolid acting presence of Taina Elg. The lush Scottish scenery also adds well to the mix. I get that this a a remake and a sub-par one compared with Hitchcock's movie. But as remakes go, you definitely could do a lot worse. This movie held my attention throughout.
Review of The 39 Steps
