The Man Who Came to Dinner (2000)

the Man who Came to Dinner - the stage version

I think that this version of the play with Nathan Lane is as great as the previous version with Monty Wooley playing Sheridan Whiteside. It is interesting to see the same play acted and performed by different individuals. It is a wonderful show with all the verbal wit one could ask for. September 30, 2008

A shadow of the original

Bad casting and lame performances make this version of the Kaufman and Hart play a tedious ordeal to watch.

The Bette-Davis Monty Woolley 1941 film bubbles like pink champagne, while this made-for-TV effort is as sparkling as mud.

Nathan Lane as Sheridan Whiteside, the insufferable man of letters who (supposedly) breaks his hip on the steps of an Ohio family's home, lacks Woolley's bite and authority as he barks out orders and makes cynical observations about the people around him.

The color production will appeal to viewers who cannot abide black and white photography.

2 1/2 of 5 stars. September 18, 2008

A Hilarious Masterpiece--Nathan Lane at his Best

I had caught the last half of this video on public television's Masterpiece Theatre, and for many months my wife and I watched for it to be released on DVD. Turns out that, as outrageously funny as the last half was--it's that hilarious from the opening scene to the closing credits!
If you've seen Nathan Lane in The Bird Cage, you'll have an idea of the side-splitting comedy that he brings to the stage or screen. The Man Who Came to Dinner put him in an utterly different character, but one just as over-the-top, and just as outrageous.
For a Nathan Lane fan, this one is not to be missed. For anyone who likes a hilarious comedy, this is one of the best! February 16, 2007

Fun, Funny, Great

This recording from a recent production is amazing. Nathan Lane is great and larger than life, as usual. The rest of the cast does wonderful jobs. This is a treasure! January 3, 2007

Strong Ensemble

I suggest that any group looking for a strong ensemble piece to perform take the time to watch this production of "The Man Who Came to Dinner". The actors gel magnificently! Even the penguins!!! Nathan Lane is at his finest and Jean Smart has never been better. This DVD is a great gift idea, or would be fantastic as a classroom study.. November 10, 2006

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