There were fewer steampunk moments than I thought there would be, but it was still quite the fun little flick. Taking place in 1911, it is a comic-book-style romp repeat with character actors in a way only the Europeans are able to manage. There are particularly large ears, immense noses, and substantial mustaches. The mustaches seem almost to become characters themselves. There is even a Madame Lefoux in Paris moment or two. There is a bumbling investigator, idiot politicians, several conspiring academics, and a Allan Quatermain style big game hunter ~ wearing eye makeup (!). My favorite character, of course, was the mummy, bowler hatted and in pursuit of tea. I also loved the prime minister’s Scottie.
One stand-out steampunk moment was the improvised breathalyzer. There was a brief glimpse of a parasol, although it is never, to my mind, wielded appropriately. The costumes were quite lovely and I was so inspired I nearly bought a large and completely nonsensical hat the very next day. There movie also featured, in no particular order ~ sheep camouflage, prison breaks, and pterodactyl pooh.
The plot was rather odd and convoluted, but in then end I very much enjoyed myself. It is sort of how Alexia might be had I crossed my brain with that of Chester Gould and perhaps a little Pink Panther.
Who knows if it will ever get a US release, like City Hunter, it might be destined to languish in obscurity. Still, if you have a chance, I recommend it.
Gail’s Daily Dose
Your Infusion of Cute:
And the main actress, playing Adele, is very stylish off set too!
Your Tisane of Smart:
More on my favorite, the Mimic Octopus.
Your Writerly Tinctures:
The new Macmillan contract looks rough.
Awaiting galleys. Available for preorder on Amazon.
Timeless: Clomp, clomp, comp.
Secret Project F: We’re waiting. We’re waiting.
Quote of the Day:
“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony know as afternoon tea.”
~ Henry James
That movie looks like entertaining fun. Thanks for making me aware of it. 🙂