“Bedtime Stories” (1964)

Comedy

Running Time: 99 minutes

Written by: Stanley Shapiro and Paul Henning

Directed by: Ralph Levy

Featuring: Marlon Brando, David Niven and Shirley Jones

Freddy Benson: “She caught me with another woman. You’re French, you understand.”

Andre: “To be with another woman, that is French. To be caught, that is American.”

“Bedtime Story” is a charming 1964 comedy film directed by Ralph Levy, starring the iconic duo of Marlon Brando and David Niven, alongside Shirley Jones. With its delightful mix of humor, romance, and wit, the movie offers a delightful escape into the world of con men and their elaborate schemes. Set against the backdrop of the French Riviera, “Bedtime Story” weaves a tale of deceit, rivalry, and unexpected camaraderie, making it a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences decades after its release.

The plot revolves around Lawrence Jameson (David Niven), a suave and sophisticated con artist who preys on wealthy women vacationing on the French Riviera. With his impeccable charm and cunning intellect, Lawrence leads a lavish lifestyle by swindling his targets with elaborate stories and fabricated identities. However, his smooth operation faces a significant threat when a brash and opportunistic American hustler, Freddy Benson (Marlon Brando), arrives on the scene.

Freddy, with his crude manners and streetwise charm, represents a stark contrast to Lawrence’s refined demeanor. Seeing an opportunity to capitalize on the lucrative con game, Freddy decides to challenge Lawrence’s territory. What ensues is a hilarious battle of wits and cunning as the two con men engage in a series of outrageous schemes to outwit each other and claim dominance over the Riviera’s wealthy elite.

Central to the film’s comedic charm is the dynamic between Lawrence and Freddy, portrayed masterfully by Niven and Brando, respectively. Niven brings his trademark elegance and wit to the role of Lawrence, effortlessly embodying the suave con artist with a twinkle in his eye and a silver tongue. His interactions with Brando’s Freddy are a delight to watch, as the two actors play off each other’s contrasting personas with impeccable timing and chemistry.

Brando, known primarily for his dramatic roles, delivers a surprisingly comedic performance as Freddy Benson. Shedding his intense demeanor, Brando embraces the role of the bumbling American hustler with gusto, infusing the character with a mix of charm, naivety, and street smarts. His comedic timing and physicality add layers of humor to the film, elevating it beyond a mere comedy of errors into a timeless classic.

The arrival of Janet Walker (Shirley Jones), a seemingly innocent and wealthy heiress, further complicates the dynamic between Lawrence and Freddy. Both men set their sights on Janet as their next target, leading to a series of hilarious misadventures as they compete for her affections and her fortune. Shirley Jones delivers a delightful performance as the object of their affection, balancing innocence with a hint of mischief as she becomes entangled in their elaborate schemes.

As the story unfolds, “Bedtime Story” takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through a world of luxury, deception, and unexpected alliances. From elaborate masquerades to outrageous disguises, the film is filled with memorable moments that keep audiences entertained from start to finish. Yet, beneath the surface antics lies a poignant exploration of identity, morality, and the nature of human relationships.

At its core, “Bedtime Story” is a film about the art of deception and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. Through the characters of Lawrence and Freddy, the movie explores the complex motivations behind their cons, highlighting the human desire for wealth, power, and validation. As the two men navigate the intricacies of their profession, they also grapple with questions of morality and self-discovery, ultimately realizing that the greatest con of all may be the one they play on themselves.

In addition to its compelling characters and engaging storyline, “Bedtime Story” is also visually stunning, thanks to its lush cinematography and picturesque setting on the French Riviera. The film captures the glamour and elegance of the era, transporting viewers to a world of opulent mansions, sun-drenched beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Each frame is filled with rich detail and vibrant color, creating a feast for the eyes that enhances the overall viewing experience.

Furthermore, the film’s light-hearted tone and witty dialogue make it accessible to audiences of all ages, ensuring its enduring popularity over the years. Whether you’re a fan of classic comedies or simply looking for a delightful escape from reality, “Bedtime Story” offers something for everyone. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to entertain, uplift, and remind us of the enduring power of laughter and imagination.

As the plot thickens, the rivalry between Lawrence and Freddy reaches new heights, leading to a series of increasingly elaborate and hilarious schemes. From impersonating royalty to staging fake art auctions, the two con men stop at nothing to outdo each other and claim the ultimate prize – Janet Walker’s fortune. Along the way, they enlist the help of an eclectic cast of characters, including Lawrence’s loyal assistant, Andre (John Dehner), and Freddy’s unsuspecting sidekick, Fanny Eubanks (Dody Goodman).

One of the film’s standout sequences is the iconic “rube roulette” scene, in which Lawrence and Freddy compete to see who can swindle the most money from a group of unsuspecting tourists. As the two men take turns spinning a wheel to determine their next target, hilarity ensues as they resort to increasingly outrageous tactics to outwit each other. The scene is a perfect showcase of Niven and Brando’s comedic talents, as they play off each other with impeccable timing and physical comedy.

Amidst the laughter and hijinks, “Bedtime Story” also offers a poignant exploration of the nature of identity and the masks we wear to navigate the complexities of life. Both Lawrence and Freddy are masters of disguise, adept at assuming different personas to achieve their goals. Yet, beneath the facade of wealth and sophistication lies a sense of emptiness and longing for something more meaningful.

This theme is perhaps most evident in Lawrence’s character arc, as he grapples with the realization that his life of luxury and deception may not bring him the fulfillment he desires. Through his interactions with Janet and Freddy, Lawrence begins to question his own motives and priorities, ultimately undergoing a transformative journey of self-discovery.

Similarly, Freddy’s journey is one of growth and self-realization, as he learns to navigate the intricacies of the con game while staying true to himself. Despite his rough exterior and penchant for mischief, Freddy possesses a genuine warmth and humanity that endears him to both Janet and the audience. As he learns to embrace his own strengths and vulnerabilities, Freddy emerges as a surprisingly sympathetic character, challenging the audience’s perceptions of what it means to be a con artist.

In the end, “Bedtime Story” delivers a satisfying conclusion that ties up its various plot threads while leaving room for interpretation and reflection. Without giving away too much, the film’s final act is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. It’s a testament to the skill of the filmmakers and the talents of the cast that “Bedtime Story” remains just as engaging and entertaining today as it was over half a century ago.

“Bedtime Story” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its charm, humor, and unforgettable characters. From its stellar cast to its picturesque setting, the film delights viewers with its witty dialogue, engaging storyline, and visually stunning cinematography. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting it for the umpteenth time, “Bedtime Story” is sure to leave you smiling and longing for more.