Is "Clue" (1985) Still a Killer Comedy? A Deep Dive into the Whodunit That Keeps on Giving
Some movies entertain. Others remain a part of culture. "Clue," from 1985, is in the latter group. This film has quirky characters and multiple endings. It is still worth a watch today. For fans of comedy and mystery, "Clue" is a must-see. Enter the bizarre world of Hill House, full of murder and mayhem.
The Mystery Unfolds: Setting the Stage for Murder
Picture a stormy night in 1954. Six strangers, each hiding a secret, get invites to Hill House. This isn’t a normal dinner party. A mysterious Mr. Boddy orchestrates it and holds secrets over each guest. They assume names from the "Clue" game: Colonel Mustard, Mrs. White, Mrs. Peacock, Professor Plum, Mr. Green, and Miss Scarlet. Sound familiar?
As the night unfolds, weapons are handed out: a candlestick, a wrench, a pipe, and more. Lights cut out, chaos ensues, and Mr. Boddy ends up dead. The premise is simple yet elegant. It's another take on the "old dark house" whodunit formula found in films like "The Bat Whispers" (1930) or "The Old Dark House" (1932). "Clue" mixes this classic idea with a hefty dose of comedic farce.
The setting is a character itself. Hill House, with Gothic Revival design, serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes a maze of secrets. While interior scenes were filmed on Paramount's lot, exterior shots were taken at a mansion in South Pasadena, California. The time is 1954, during the Cold War, adding historical detail to the story's chaos.
Why "Clue" Still Hits the Mark: A Timeless Blend of Humor and Suspense
The dialogue is sharp and packed with puns and well-timed physical gags. Comedic talents like Madeline Kahn, Tim Curry, and Christopher Lloyd deliver unforgettable performances. Each character is drawn from classic archetypes yet bears depth to remain engaging and suspicious. "Clue" becomes an experience to re-watch, revealing hidden humor and plot twists upon repeated viewings.
The Endings Game: Choose Your Own Adventure in Murder
"Clue's" multiple endings create significant discussion. Why three endings? It's simple: they reflect the game experience. Just as in the board game where the mystery varies each time, filmmakers provided three unique conclusions highlighting different killers. This approach was bold and needs viewer participation to enjoy fully.
Three official endings were filmed for differing theaters, so audiences might see Ending A, B, or C during the original run. This generated excitement and encouraged repeated viewings and discussions. Home video later included all three endings, showcasing "Clue's" full comedic range. Each ending presents different scenarios with varied characters as killers, becoming increasingly outrageous.
A fourth ending was conceived but discarded. In this lost ending, Wadsworth, the clever butler, would be the single killer, driven by perfection. Though omitted, it adds depth to the film’s lore and hints at creative possibilities explored in production. The most audacious ending is often referred to as Ending C; nearly every character becomes a killer in chaotic murder to hide their tracks. It's improbable, over-the-top, and aligns perfectly with the film's comedic tone. Which ending is best? Each adds to the film’s brilliance, making it rewatchable.
Unmasking the Killers: A Rogues' Gallery of Suspects
Who are the murderers in this dark comedy? In Ending C, many are implicated. "Clue" offers a team of killers. Here’s the breakdown:
- Professor Plum: This academic kills Mr. Boddy or what appears to be him.
- Mrs. Peacock: The pious lady takes out the unsuspecting cook.
- Colonel Mustard: The military man eliminates a hapless motorist.
- Mrs. White: This widow avenges her deceased husbands by silencing Yvette.
- Miss Scarlet: Ruthless, she ensures the cop can't tell his tales.
- Wadsworth: Not innocent himself; he kills the singing telegram girl.
The main victim throughout is Mr. Boddy. Or is he? In a typical twist, Wadsworth reveals that Professor Plum killed not Mr. Boddy but his butler instead. The real Mr. Boddy later appears but meets his fate at Mr. Green's hands. Confusing? That's the fun. In the UK game version ("Cluedo"), the victim is Dr. Black, a notable difference between adaptations.
Meet the Suspects: A Closer Look at the Colorful Characters
The characters in "Clue" are not merely game pieces; they provide depth to the film's humor. Let's explore some key players:
Mrs. White: The Mysterious Widow
Mrs. White, played dryly by Madeline Kahn, is an enigmatic figure with past ghosts – her five late husbands. The film suggests she could be behind their deaths. Her famous line goes: "Flames... flames on the side of my face..."
about hatred is a memorable part of the film. It highlights Kahn's comedy. In the board game, Mrs. White is an original character. However, 2016 introduced Dr. Orchid for diversity. Dr. Orchid is a scientist with a toxicology PhD. Mrs. White returned as Chef White in 2023. Mrs. White faces blackmail over possible mariticide. Yvette's affair with her husband drives the murder plot.
Mr. Green: The Secret Agent
Mr. Green, played by Michael McKean, seems innocent. He acts bewildered by events, but twists arise. Mr. Green is an undercover FBI agent. He committed no wrongdoing before this. His homosexuality made him vulnerable to blackmail in the 1950s. In the end, he shoots the real Mr. Boddy.
Miss Scarlet: The Madame with Secrets
Miss Scarlet, portrayed by Lesley Ann Warren, runs a brothel. This serves as comedic innuendo. Miss Scarlet is first to move in the board game due to her red pawn. In the story, she's blackmailed by Mr. Boddy. Yvette, a call girl of hers, worked as a spy.
Mrs. Peacock: The Sinister Senator's Wife
Mrs. Peacock is played by Eileen Brennan. She is a senator's wife who protects her reputation. Her secret? Mariticide. Mr. Boddy threatens to expose her crime, which brings her to the dinner party. She skillfully deflects blame, adding chaos.
Colonel Mustard: The War Profiteer
Colonel Mustard, acted by Martin Mull, has a military past. He is being blackmailed for war profiteering. Wadsworth reveals this while posing as Mr. Boddy. This information lured Mustard and others to Hill House.
Dr. Orchid: The Modern Addition
Dr. Orchid doesn’t appear in the 1985 film but is key in the board game. Introduced in 2016, she replaced Mrs. White to diversify the cast. As a toxicology PhD scientist, she modernizes the classic game.
Lee Ving/Mr. Boddy: The Dubbed Villain
Lee Ving plays Mr. Boddy but his lines are dubbed over. An uncredited actor voiced his parts. The dubbing's reason remains a mystery, adding intrigue to the film's quirky production.
Rating and Appropriateness: Is "Clue" Family-Friendly?
"Clue" is funny but is it kid-friendly? The answer is complex. Initially, it had a PG rating. This indicated suitability for general audiences with adult guidance. However, it contains elements possibly unsuitable for children.
Humor is often sexually suggestive. Double entendres can go over kids’ heads but are present. There are references to Miss Scarlet's madam job, drinking, smoking, and blackmail. While violence is cartoonish, deaths do happen along with brief blood scenes.
Rating histories vary. Some label it PG, others hint at PG-13 or R due to mature themes and humor. For family viewing, be careful and gauge children’s maturity levels. Older teens may enjoy the wit, while younger kids may miss jokes or face adult themes.
Ultimately, parents should decide on its appropriateness for kids.
From Board Game to Big Screen: The "Clue" Connection
The connection between the film and board game is clear. "Clue" the film comes from "Clue" (or "Cluedo" in the UK). This link appears not just in characters but throughout the film itself. Multiple endings mimic the game's unpredictability.
The "Cluedo" game has an interesting origin story created by Anthony Pratt. He was an English musician with a love for murder mysteries and detective fiction. His interest led him to create "Cluedo." Initially set in 1926 at Tudor Mansion, it predates the film’s 1954 Hill House.
Is "Clue" based on real events? No, neither board game nor movie shares a true story basis. Both draw inspiration from real murders, mystery genres, and "old dark house" themes. Mr. Boddy is the victim in the US version; Dr. Black is in the UK version.
For ardent "Clue" players, scenes will be familiar. Secret passages in the mansion allow quick movement across the board, visually represented in the film as well. In "Clue," one accusation is allowed per game, which is a vital strategic element.
The mysterious “Xs” signify denied cards during play. The magnifying glass icon shows players can draw clue cards after rolling it for extra deduction layers.
Remakes, Sequels, and Spin-offs: The Enduring Legacy of "Clue"
"Clue" enjoys cult classic status, so remake discussions arise often over the years. Development stages have seen many creative teams involved. Currently, the remake’s status is uncertain but shows interest decades later for "Clue." No direct film sequel exists, but there’s "Clue 2," an official board game sequel expanding the universe.
Behind the Scenes: Production Quirks and Details
The making of "Clue" matched its uniqueness. Surprisingly, improvisation was rare, except for Kahn's iconic "flames" speech. Reports suggest the script called for intense hatred from Mrs. White towards Yvette. Kahn interpreted this direction with hilarious unscripted takes, ending with her famous moment.
An interesting detail involves setting date specificity. While "Clue" (1985) states only 1954, viewers surmise June 9th as a precise date by identifying Mrs. Ho watching House Un-American Activities Committee hearings on television. This historic speech delivered by Joseph Welch occurred on that date, linking "Clue" events.
If You Like "Clue": More Murderous Movie Mayhem
If you love "Clue," you may want similar films. If you like Adam Sandler's humor and whodunits, watch "Murder Mystery" (2019). It stars Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. The film follows a New York cop and his hairdresser wife entangled in a billionaire's yacht murder case. Sandler and Aniston shine as a comedic pair. They have worked together in three films: "Just Go with It," "Murder Mystery," and its sequel. Adam Sandler also has a touching tribute in "50 First Dates" (2004). The film is dedicated to his father, Stanley Sandler. You can see this dedication in the credits.
Beyond the Movie: "Clue" Conspiracy and Musical Stage
The "Clue" universe goes beyond the board game and 1985 film. "Clue Conspiracy" is a new strategy board game. Players take on secret roles to solve a murder. It adds complexity to the classic formula. For musical theater fans, there’s "Clue the Musical." This stage show enhances "Clue's" interactive elements. Each performance draws cards for different endings, totaling 216 possible outcomes. This makes every show unique. The script varies dialogue based on these endings. "Clue the Musical" is a special theatrical experience.
In summary, "Clue" (1985) is a cinematic treasure. Its mix of comedy and mystery stands strong over time. The memorable characters, multiple endings, and clever writing keep audiences delighted for decades. Whether you're a fan or a newcomer, "Clue" promises laughter and intrigue. Gather your tools and get ready to solve the mystery or just enjoy the chaos. You can read more about Clue (film) on Wikipedia and see reflections on its 30th anniversary on Vox.
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