Clue (1985)
Directed by Jonathan Lynn. Starring Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, Christopher Lloyd, Eileen Brennan, Michael McKean, Martin Mull, and Lesley Ann Warren.
By Joe Lollo
I’ve seen Clue 8 times now. Jonathan Lynn’s comedic whodunit is one of my favorite movies of all time, ever since my parents showed it to me in 3rd grade.
The plot is as simple as the board game it’s based on: in the middle of the Red Scare, six suspected communists are invited to an isolated manor, each given a pseudonym and a weapon. The lights go out, and their blackmailer dies. Who did it? That’s for you to deduce as the plot unfolds.
The ensemble cast is, for lack of a better word, iconic. Each actor fully inhabits their archetype, turning caricatures into unforgettable performances. Wadsworth anchors the chaos with his breathless, escalating exposition. Colonel Mustard shines through his cluelessness and literal-minded blunders. Mrs. White commands the room with barely-contained, improvised rage. Mr. Green brings a frantic, anxious physical comedy that contrasts perfectly with Professor Plum’s sharp one-liners. Mrs. Peacock’s nervous screeching is unfortunately relatable amid the panic. And Miss Scarlett’s cynical confidence around the craziness rounds out a room full of hilarious conflicting personalities. Even the minor characters, like sultry maid Yvette, feel fleshed out and believable, which is impressive for a film with such a big cast.
