Arthur (1981)

My Review

“Arthur” is the story of an irresponsible alcoholic millionaire who is on the brink of going into a marriage arranged by his grandmother, if he is to keep his fortune. However, he is in love with another woman and the drama and comedy proceed from there. Director-screenwriter Steve Gordon did quite a job organizing this film, with the main character fleshed out by comedic actor Dudley Moore, seemingly born for this role.

The supporting cast is outstanding, including Liza Minnelli as Arthur’s girlfriend, John Gielgud as his butler, Geraldine Fitzgerald as his grandmama, and Jill Eikenberry as Arthur’s finance. Others include Stephen Elliot, Paul Gleason, Lou Jacobi, Thomas Barbour, Ted Ross, Barney Martin, Raymond Serra, Mark Margolis, and Phyliss Somerville.

“Arthur” was a big hit in theatrical release for Orion Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures. It won two Oscars, for Best Supporting Actor for John Gielgud, and Best Original Song, “Arthur’s Song” for Burt Bacharach, Carol Bayer Sager, Christopher Cross, and Peter Allen. Two other nominations were for Best Actor (Moore) and Best Screenplay. This was the only work as a big screen director for Gordon, who passed away in November, 1982, at the age of 44.