Guys and Dolls
Guys and Dolls
Gambler Nathan Detroit has few options for the location of his big craps game. Needing $1,000 to pay a garage owner to host the game, Nathan bets Sky Masterson that Sky cannot get virtuous Sarah Brown out on a date. Despite some resistance, Sky negotiates a date with her in exchange for bringing people into her mission. Meanwhile, Nathan's longtime fiancée, Adelaide, wants him to go legit and marry her.
Charles London reviewedMay 25, 2025
This mostly enjoyable film adaptation of the classic Broadway production is well dotted with memorable musical numbers and playful choreography. It also features good cinematography with colorful costumes and sets.
It's not perfect, however. I would contend that some of the talking scenes stretch on too long, slowing the pace of the film. I would also point out that while Marlon Brando is convincing as Sky Masterson, his singing voice, though adequate for most songs, just isn't strong enough to belt out "Luck Be a Lady". I believe Frank Sinatra lobbied for that part but was instead cast as Nathan Detroit. In a twist of irony, Sinatra would go on to score a hit with that very song about a decade later.
I can't justifiably put the movie up against a live stage version, but all things considered, it's worth a bowl of popcorn on a Saturday night at home.