This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 98. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hey there, friends! 🎬
So last night, I curled up on my couch and decided to dive into the classic film world. I stumbled upon this gem from 1946 called “Angel on My Shoulder,” directed by the one and only Archie Mayo. Let me tell you, it was a delightful blast from the past!
First off, the plot? Absolutely bonkers in the best way. We’ve got this tough guy, Eddie Kagle (played by the ruggedly charming Paul Muni), who’s basically a gangster straight out of central casting. He’s the kind of guy you wouldn’t want to bump into in a dark alley, you know? Anyway, Eddie’s life takes a wild left turn when he’s murdered by his best friend (talk about a bad day) and winds up in, well, let’s just call it the ‘hotter’ afterlife. 😈
But here’s the kicker – Eddie meets the Devil, played by Claude Rains, who is just deliciously evil. He’s like that one friend who’s always plotting something but you can’t help but hang out with them. The Devil makes Eddie an offer he can’t refuse (classic Devil move, right?): He’ll get to return to Earth to seek revenge on his traitor friend. But – and there’s always a but – he has to do a little job for the Devil by causing some mischief.
Now, Eddie gets a new identity as a judge (of all things!), and it’s just hilarious watching this tough gangster trying to fit into those robes and play nice. The scenes where Eddie struggles with his new “judge” life had me in stitches! 😂
The chemistry between Muni and Rains is top-notch. Muni’s rough-around-the-edges charm contrasts perfectly with Rains’ smooth, sly Devil. And there’s Anne Baxter, playing the judge’s fiancée, who’s all innocence and goodness. You can bet she starts to influence our guy Eddie in ways he didn’t expect.
What I loved about this film is how it blends humor, drama, and a bit of romance in a way that just feels so… classic Hollywood. You’ve got witty dialogues, a plot that’s equal parts silly and engaging, and actors who seem like they’re having the time of their lives.
And the ending? No spoilers, but let’s just say it’s both heartwarming and a little cheeky. Classic 1940s cinema, right?
Watching “Angel on My Shoulder” felt like stepping into a time machine and experiencing a slice of 1940s Americana. It’s a reminder of how timeless good storytelling can be – and how the best movies can transport us to a completely different era.
So, if you’re in the mood for a classic flick with a side of devilish humor, give “Angel on My Shoulder” a watch. It’s a cozy night in kind of movie that’ll leave you with a smile and maybe a little more appreciation for those old black-and-white films.
Toodles till tomorrow! 👋
Roger