The Vincent Price Movie Review

Released in 1950
Directed by Richard Whorf

“it is my sincere conviction that the only way to be happy is to be poor.”
“I see your point. I am about to make you the happiest man in the world.”

Champagne for Caesar is a light-hearted comedy featuring delightful performances by everyone involved, including the eponymous parrot. (voiced by Mel Blanc of Looney Tunes fame) Vincent Price gives an over-the-top performance in his first comedic role on the big screen, and manages to steal the show in the process.

The movie opens with the encyclopedic but unemployed Beauregard Bottomley(Ronald Colman) searching for a job. Beauregard claims he knows everything, but laments “if you know everything, you’re not wanted around for long.” His job search finds him applying at Milady Soap, owned by the eccentric tycoon Burnbridge Waters(Vincent Price), who also sponsors a popular quiz show on television. Despite having excellent qualifications, Beauregard is insulted by Waters and unceremoniously shuffled out the door. His pride wounded, Beauregard hatches an idea for revenge after watching an episode of Milady Soap’s quiz show, Masquerade for Money. The format of the show is somewhat similar in nature to Who Wants to be a Millionaire. The contestants are asked successive questions, each time doubling their money, and if they get one wrong they lose it all unless they wish to stop before the next question is asked. Beauregard auditions for a spot on the show, gets it, and promptly starts piling up the cash. When Waters realizes how much money he stands to lose if Beauregard keeps on winning, he enacts a diabolic scheme involving the beautiful and sophisticated Flame O’Neill(Celeste Holm) to ensure Beauregard loses.

This movie ranks high on the list for the Vincent Price enthusiast. As far as I can find, this was the first chance Price had to showcase his comedic ability in a motion picture. Ronald Colman is great as the sophisticated and suave know-it-all, but Price’s hilarious and whacky performance as Burnbridge Waters really makes this film special.

In addition, the supporting performances are well executed. The beauty and sophistication of Celeste Holm is the perfect complement to Ronald Colman. Barbara Britton gives a splendid performance as Beauregard’s wholesome and beautiful sister. Art Linkletter is spot on as the quiz show host. And all of the performances are anchored by some exceptional dialog. It’s witty, snappy, and funny - and kept me cracking up.

A definite must see for the Vincent Price fan or anyone who enjoys a good comedy.