The Ladykillers
1955
****
Director: Alexander Mackendrick
Cast: Alec Guinness, Cecil Parker, Herbert Lom, Peter Sellers, Danny Green, Jack Warner, Katie Johnson, Frankie Howerd, Philip Stainton, Fred Griffiths
A gang of criminals rent a room in a boarding house owned by a sweet old lady. The gang, led by the eccentric Professor Marcus, pretends to be a string quintet rehearsing classical music while planning a robbery. This charming comedy has a brilliantly simple premise, wonderfully drawn characters, and several lovely performances. No wonder it has become a classic. The Coen brothers made a very disappointing remake in 2004.
