Hello! Here’s a really FUN Classic called “Heaven Can Wait”. It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Cinematography – Color, Best Director and Best Picture. It DEFINITELY has “The (Ernst) Lubitsch Touch” ;D
This Classic will hold up just fine if I share a bit of the story’s premise: “An aged Henry Van Cleve (Don Ameche) enters the opulent reception area of Hell, to be personally greeted by “his excellency”–small “h”, small “e” played by Laird Cregar. Henry petitions to be admitted (fully aware of the kind of life he had led), but there is some doubt as to his qualifications. To prove his worthiness (or rather unworthiness), he begins to tell the story of his dissolute life…” (thank you, wiki!)
This movie is a hoot ;D This is one of the many funny lines given by Don Ameche’s character when questioned by satan: “I can safely say my whole life was one continuous misdemeanor”. Ha!
Ok, I also have to admit to you that I LOVE Don Ameche as an actor, and as a Old Time Radio actor! When you’re watching, just close your eyes for a minute and listen to his silky-smooth voice…. And that’s why he was so very popular in early Radio!
On to the other WONDERFUL cast members: (I’ll add the Wiki link below for this film in case you’d like to learn more about the back story and other interesting movie facts)
Gene Tierney as Martha
Don Ameche as Henry Van Cleve
Charles Coburn as Hugo Van Cleve
Marjorie Main as Mrs. Strable
Laird Cregar as His Excellency
Spring Byington as Bertha Van Cleve
Allyn Joslyn as Albert Van Cleve
Eugene Pallette as E.F. Strable
Signe Hasso as Mademoiselle
Louis Calhern as Randolph Van Cleve
Helene Reynolds as Peggy Nash
Aubrey Mather as James
Tod Andrews as Jack Van Cleve (as Michael Ames)
Scotty Beckett as Henry Van Cleve, age 9
Dickie Moore as Henry Van Cleve, age 15
Clara Blandick as Grandmother Van Cleve
Clarence Muse as Jasper, the Strable’s butler
Anita Sharp-Bolster as Mrs. Cooper-Cooper
Doris Merrick as Nellie Brown – Registered Night Nurse
Edwin Maxwell as Doctor (uncredited)
