DVD Corner

On The Double Blu-ray Review

“On The Double” is a flawed, but entertaining Danny Kaye vehicle.

“On The Double” is a WWII centric comedy about a kind, bumbling, hypochondriac, nervous American soldier (Private Ernie Williams) who becomes involved in an integral mission. Williams (who bears an uncanny resemblance to the tough General MacKenzie-Smith) is caught impersonating the eye patch sporting General one day and soon finds himself being forced into a mission by Military Intelligence. What Williams doesn’t know, however, is that the mission is to use him as bait in order to reveal undercover spies and Nazi assassins. Things become even further complicated for the in over his head Private Williams when the REAL General allegedly dies which makes his “mission” even more difficult. While all of this is going on, Private Williams also finds himself falling for the General’s kind hearted wife (Margaret).

As a movie, “On the Double” is a bit muddled. The tone is odd (with the movie getting a bit dark at times), the jokes don’t always work (what is with the weird voice over?), the ending is rushed, and the premise feels often underutilized. With all of that said, however, the movie has one thing going for it- Danny Kaye. Despite the film’s shortcomings, the screenplay certainly plays to comedian/actor Danny Kaye’s strengths as he gets to spout wordplay, perform slapstick bits, and, of course, make all sorts of goofy expressions. Above all else though, Kaye gets to go all out by playing dual roles as a hardass General and the dopey private Williams. Whether he’s on the run from Nazis, posing as a woman, or performing a Scottish ritual, Kaye is clearly having a blast here. He’s the best thing about the movie and the only reason it is made watchable.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.35:1 1080p. How does it look? Despite some print flaws and dirt specs, I was pretty impressed by this print. The colors and lighting were especially noteworthy.

Audio Track: DTS-HD Mono. How does it sound? The Mono track sounds like a Mono track as it’s generally pretty flat. The dialogue sounds far too low at times for my liking.

No extras.

Overall Thoughts: While not on the level of say “The Court Jester,” “On The Double” is still worth watching if you’re a Danny Kaye fan.

December 17, 2013 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Danny Kaye, On The Double Blu-ray Review