And the Best Picture goes to....

A decent picture, “Around the World in 80 Days” manages to stand out in a competitive field, particularly when pitted against classics like “The King and I” and “The Ten Commandments.” It’s fascinating to consider that perhaps these two heavyweight films unintentionally split the audience’s votes, allowing this adventure to clinch the Best Picture title.

One of the film’s most captivating aspects is its all-star cast, featuring cameos from Hollywood legends like Charles Boyer, Marlene Dietrich, Frank Sinatra, and Ronald Colman. This film was groundbreaking in its use of cameo roles, setting an example for future productions by adding some excitement every time a familiar face appeared on screen.

The movie serves almost as a travelogue, whisking viewers through various stunning locations—Bangladesh, Thailand, Hong Kong, Spain, France, the U.K., and the United States. Each setting enriches the narrative while providing an array of sights to behold, capturing the spirit of Jules Verne’s timeless tale.

One intriguing element that arose during my viewing was the question of who truly occupies the lead role. While it appears David Niven is the star, Mexican actor and comedian Cantinflas emerges as a more prominent figure throughout the film. His charming portrayal of Passepartout is both sweet and endearing. For instance, his bullfighting scene recalls the antics of a rodeo clown, and it’s a delightful coincidence that his bowler hat and suit evoke the image of Charlie Chaplin. With just a cane, he could easily have stepped right from a Chaplin film!

Clocking in at nearly three hours, the film surprisingly maintains a captivating flow that holds the viewer’s attention. A cleverly woven subplot raises an intriguing question: did Phileas Fogg actually rob the Bank of England? This twist adds an engaging twist to the plot that keeps you guessing.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that this marks the career debut of Shirley MacLaine, who stars as Princess Aou. This film highlights her as the first appearance in three Best Picture films, contributing to her eventual Oscar for Best Actress.

Overall, “Around the World in 80 Days” is a vibrant, entertaining adventure that combines humor, spectacular visuals, and a touch of mystery. It’s a film that not only celebrates the art of storytelling but also the joy of exploration.