Film Review - Clue (1985)

It's usually not a good sign when a movie is based off of a game, and most would certainly assume the same with Jonathan Lynn's Clue, based off the classic board game and brining over its characters such as Mr. Green, Mrs. White, and, of course, Rich Uncle Pennyba–err, I mean Professor Plum. However, Clue's origins were just a red herring, as while this is undoubtedly a game, it's one that uses it to its full advantage.

The film is hilarious all the way through, mostly in part thanks to the cast. The entire ensemble undoubtedly had a blast here; everyone makes the most of every moment and are entirely aware of the film's nature, particularly Tim Curry who brings to life a butler as zany and entertaining as they come. Simply put, Clue is made what it is thanks to the efforts of its cast.

But that isn't to shame the rest of the film, as its comedic efforts on its own work wonders. It doesn't take itself seriously in the slightest, trading mystery for comedy. This admittedly does take away for what could've made for some great whodunnit elements (apart from maybe the end), but it doesn't kill with cluelessness in the studio, not at all. It takes the situations and setting it's given and works with it in ways that allow for its antics to ensue. Every moment offers more than a good laugh with how they are made with the idea of keeping entertaining tension at hand.

However, the film is somewhat lacking in story development, with the screenplay setting up part of a story and having other parts somewhat interrupt it. But this can be forgiven because the writing still achieves what it sets out to do, making up for some underdevelopment with an intriguing enough mystery that is helped by how humor is mixed into the equation. It's not a perfect screenplay, but the areas where it does work do so quite well, and embraces the wackiness at hand more so.

Ultimately, what was initially met with mixed reception and poor box office numbers has rightfully earned its title as a cult classic. Where it lacks a fully intriguing mystery, and makes up for in the humor and cast chemistry that is among the best of its time for a comedy. It's possibly the best adaption of any game out there, which may be a low as a bar as they come, but Clue is a diamond in the rough worth anyone's time. Now, if you excuse me, I'm gonna go home and... watch a movie, I guess.

Final Grade: B+