We're No Angels

We're No Angels hails from the golden age of filmmaking, circa 1955 and features the compelling performances of Humphrey Bogart, Peter Ustinov, and Aldo Ray. This classic Christmas comedy and drama is an intriguing mix of humor, suspense, and heartfelt emotions that provides an engaging watch for the entire family.

Set in 1895, We're No Angels involves three convicts - Joseph (played by Humphrey Bogart), Jules (Peter Ustinov), and Albert (Aldo Ray) - who breakout from Devil’s Island, a notorious incarceration facility located off the coast of French Guiana. Very different in personalities but united in their pursuit of freedom, these three characters form the vital triangle of this unique narrative. Bogart, Ustinov, and Ray, all shining stars in their own rights, bring such diversified and vibrant personas to the table, thereby fouling up the viewers’ general perception of convicts, and making them relatable and human.

The convicts seek refuge in a local shopkeeper's store with the initial intention to rob him and sail away on his ship. Here, they meet the amiable Ducotel family comprising of Felix, the good-hearted yet fumbling shopkeeper (Leo G. Carroll), his devoted wife Amelie (Joan Bennett) and their lovely daughter Isabelle (Gloria Talbott). The family invitations unknowingly extend to these escaped prisoners who weave a web of lies around their identity with realms of humor and bluffing, effectively hiding their criminal past from their unsuspecting hosts.

As time unfolds, the convicts begin to feel a genuine sense of sympathy toward the struggling family, battling the store's debts and the Overseer’s (Basil Rathbone) ruthless takeover attempts. Their perspective changes from exploiting the family’s vulnerabilities to helping them fight against their odds. From fixing the store's roof to giving candid advice to the family, their journey from being the secret exploiters to the unanticipated benefactors unfolds with a lot of wit and charm. The presence of Adolphe, the lovable, poison predicting pet snake of Albert, further accentuates the humor in the film and makes it more engaging.

Directed by Michael Curtiz, known for his versatile acumen ranging from adventures to musicals, We're No Angels bears his unique signature throughout. This film beautifully showcases Curtiz's competent storytelling that includes elements of humor, drama, suspense, and Christmas spirit without feeling overstuffed or inconsistent. The script penned by Ranald MacDougall, an adaption of the play 'My Three Angels' by Samuel and Bella Spewack, maintains an excellent balance between the comedic and dramatic elements, expertly tweaking the mood according to the evolving narrative.

The performances are undeniably captivating, Bogart, Ustinov, and Ray each bringing a unique shade to their characters. Bogart brings a blend of wit and seriousness to Joseph, maintaining a serpent-like allure while portraying a soft corner for the Ducotel family. The comedic genius of Peter Ustinov brings an array of laughter-inducing moments to Jules, while Ray brilliantly portrays Albert's dense yet kind-hearted side. The performances of Joan Bennett and Gloria Talbott as family members instill warmth and endearing moments, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.

We're No Angels seamlessly includes themes of redemption and empathy within its narrative. It is not a story where the good is pristinely good, and the bad is evil in their bones. The characters in this Christmas comedy-drama impressively blur the lines between the righteous and the sinners, significantly challenging the traditional notions of morality. The film develops from an intriguing escape drama to a heartwarming story of strangers turning into unexpected angels, without losing its essence of humor.

In a nutshell, We're No Angels is a delightful cinematic experience filled with humor and unexpected turns that will keep you entertained throughout. It paints a generous and lighthearted picture of human nature that goes beyond the obvious good and bad, expertly condensing drama, suspense, and a whole lot of festive laughs into a must-watch film. The impeccable combination of an adventurous plotline, enchanting performances, and memorable dialogues make it a timeless classic that one can enjoy and cherish even after six decades of its release. Whether you are a fan of Bogart’s charisma, Ustinovan’s humor, or just want to bask in the feel-good spirit of Christmas, this film must top your list of 'Christmas movies to watch.'