The Amazing Adventure

THE AMAZING ADVENTURE

REVIEWED BY CARISSA HORTON

Our rating: 4 out of 5

Because of: thematic elements

Rated:

Wealthy aristocratic Ernest Bliss (Cary Grant) is bored. There's no other word for it. He's tired of his current lifestyle. He doesn't have to earn a living, what with two million British pounds in the bank, but in being idle his mind is also languishing. His doctor arrives at the most astonishing remedy for this psychological illness. Retreat from his current lifestyle for a year's time. Use none of his money, but earn his own living. At first unwilling to even consider the idea, Ernest is finally convinced that his very reputation depends on his success in this matter. Indulging in a bet where, should he withdraw any of his current funds, than he must pay the doctor 50,000Ł, Ernest is prepared to begin his new life as a poor unknown.

With only five pounds to his name, Ernest manages to obtain lodgings, and thus begins his quest for a worthy job. The weeks pass, and when no work surfaces, his determination begins to waver. Finally obtaining a job selling stoves, Ernest finds that he really is not much of a salesman. Furthermore, the business for which he works may go belly-up at any moment due to lack of funds. Finding that he is growing fond of the owner, Ernest nearly breaks the rule of his bet by withdrawing 500Ł from his account. But since it was not for his personal use or in any way to further his own career, the bet is allowed to stand.

Under a new publicity stunt, the business begins to boom, mostly due to Ernest's helpful hints. But since he is at the core of its success, leaving is his only alternative, and so poor Ernest is job hunting once again. But this time, he is accompanied by a previous co-worker. Miss Frances Clayton (Mary Brian), who at first disliked Ernest, has now found a deep affection for him. And much to his own amazement, he reciprocates her feelings. But money is at the core of every relationship, and Frances must marry a man with at least some wealth. Her sister's ill health depends on her support, and so she continues to refuse any thought of marriage from Ernest. With sorrow just around the corner, he is now forced to either lose his bet to woo the girl or win the bet and in the process forsake his true love.

Here is a prime example of a truly masterful cinema filmed during the 1930s. It inspires and uplifts. Ernest goes into this story with no purpose for his life, but comes out finding himself a better man. He sees those around him for the first time. He sees their needs, their desires, and how many different ways he can assist. Frances has no desire for her own happiness but wants only the best for her sister and mother. At the end, these Ernest and Frances may very well be considered the two most unselfish people you will ever meet.

Having been a Cary Grant fan for some odd years now, I was thrilled to locate a film of his I had yet to see. His acting is magnificent, as always, with an inspiring character that you find yourself cheering on. The storyline is also to be commended. The only questionable material would be where a man makes a severe pass at his secretary, even attempting to lure her into spending the night with him in a hotel. But once again, Ernest rides in and saves the day. Compared with such excellent achievements as Bringing Up Baby, Walk Don't Run, and Arsenic and Old Lace, The Amazing Adventure, while not as remarkable, deserves its moment of limelight in the golden history of cinema.