This is a thoroughly charming, funny satire of MGM's all-star "Dinner at Eight" (1933). With tongue-in-cheek dignity, the cast impersonates the characters with precision. Anyone familiar with the original roles and actors will have no trouble appreciating the impressions. The script, by A. Dorian Otvos and Eddie Moran, deftly follows the original storyline, except for some musical interludes. The MGM star who declined "Dinner at Eight" Greta Gabo even receives an impression, as does Paramount studio's Mae West. Many will know Wallace Beery, Jean Harlow, Lionel Barrymore and Billie Burke. Today, the most recognizable name parodied may be John Barrymore, introduced in classic "profile" by John Bohn. At the time, the audiences' likely favorite would have been Flavia Arcaro's imitation of Marie Dressler. Primarily a stage actress, this appears to be Ms. Arcaro's only sound film credit. We and the mainly New York stage cast are lucky to have this rare short story from Warner Bros. "Come to Dinner" will admittedly lose luster if you are not aware of the performers or film being spoofed.
******* Come to Dinner (2/24/34) Roy Mack ~ Flavia Arcaro, John Bohn, Herschel Mayall, Charles Cane