Mae West co-wrote this piece based on an un-produced screenplay called The Lady And The Lions, it charts the rise of Tira {West} from carnival crowd pleaser to massive circus headliner. Tho I would be doing a disservice to a very strong and on form supporting cast by not praising them heartily, this really is pure and simply a Mae West tour de force, full of ego and show business swagger, she not only tames the lions here, she also tames everything else that happens to have a pulse, be it the characters in the film or the multi sexed viewing public, she defines the word diva whilst poking all in the ribs with comic knowing comic aplomb. I personally only purchased the film because it stars one of my favourite actors in Cary Grant, yet come the end of the film I was in no doubt who ran the show here. I was very interested to read that Grant often stated that West was the most awkward actor he ever worked with, what isn't in doubt is that he surely would of been taking notes backstage on the art of comic timing. It should also be noted for the record that Grant and West were friends to a degree, certainly Grant visited West much later in life as they both entered old age.
Containing an array of quotable lines and put downs, I'm No Angel is essential viewing for anyone interested in classic cinema, it matters not if West's style isn't really your cup of tea, because lets face facts here, the lady was a star, and here you get to watch her defend herself in court, and it's here that the lady showcases why she is often termed as a golden age legend.
PS: The supporting cast are great as well by the way! 8/10
Containing an array of quotable lines and put downs, I'm No Angel is essential viewing for anyone interested in classic cinema, it matters not if West's style isn't really your cup of tea, because lets face facts here, the lady was a star, and here you get to watch her defend herself in court, and it's here that the lady showcases why she is often termed as a golden age legend.
PS: The supporting cast are great as well by the way! 8/10