Hayley Mills and June Harding act up in this affectionate comedy as two juvenile pranksters at the St. Francis Academy for Girls. It is up to Rosalind Russell, starring as the patient and understanding Mother Superior, to show them the right path. Starring Rosalind Russell and Hayley Mills.
1 DATED BUT STILL FUNNY
Growing up with an aunt who is nun this film and it's sequel "Where Angels Go, Trouble Follows" always held a special place for me and my family. We could see our aunt in any number of the onscreen roles but especially the role of Sister Clarissa played by mary Wickes since she, like our aunt, was a bit of a free spirit.
Hayley Mills is Mary Clancy, a rebellious teen who is sent by her Uncle George (Kent Smith) to the very strict St. Francis Academy for girls in order to get her on the straight and narrow...The scenese (at least the outside) were filmed at the St. Mary's Orphanage in Pennsylvania that still stands today. Mary soon meets Rachel (June Harding) and the two become quick friends and accomplices by pulling off pranks and generally causing havok. There is a classic scene where they are smoking in a bathroom and open a window to let out the smoke. The sisters think there's a fire and call the fire department only to find the two girls.
Rosalind Russell gives a great performance as the stern Mother Superior who rules with an iron hand but also hides a softer side that the girls will soon learn. Mary certainly finds out that the Mother Superior is more than a match for her. Mary Wickes is just a riot as the gym teacher abd bus driver Sister Clarissa and would play a nun several times in her distinguished career.
Having visited convents with my aunt being a nun and all i felt that the film accurately depicted the life, surroundings and even the personalities of the nuns. It's irreverent but never disrespectful. The film has a lot of heart and a few tear-jerker moments as well. I still watch it if it pops up on TV today.
2 What no LetterBox format?
I adore this movie but i won't buy the DVD until it comes out in letterbox format. Note - it is slightly cheaper at walmart's site but not by much. If I have to suffer thru a full screen version, i might as well continue to view my VHS copy [recorded off of TV]
3 Oh, BROTHER!
I can't believe that Sony released a pan-and-scan edition of this and that I didn't catch it before purchasing it. Please, Sony, if you're going to assign a $24.95 list price to a DVD with NO EXTRAS WHATSOEVER, at least have the decency to offer pan-and-scan as an option (for those who'd actually want such a thing) along with an anamorphic widescreen print in the correct aspect ratio, as you did with The Long Gray Line, for instance. I'm really disgusted that this charming, hilarious film was accorded such shabby treatment, and the high list price adds insult to injury. Not surprising, given that the Columbia catalog is owned by the same folks who screwed up with Betamax, and are the last label to offer hybrid SACD's, despite their having pioneered the technology.
Incidentally, this film is based on a true story written by Jane Trahey titled Life with Mother Superior. The movie is faithful to the spirit of the book, which is devastatingly funny. Grab it if you can find it.
4 Happy 60s Movie
Typical of the period; a little slow, but very enjoyable. Nice for a rainy weekend afternoon.
5 a wonderful movie
A film by Ida Lupino
"The Trouble with Angels" is a very charming movie and it remains one of my favorites. The story is simple, but sweet. It takes place at the St. Francis Academy for Girls, where Mary Clancy (Hayley Mills) and Rachel Devery (June Harding) are enrolling as students. This is a parochial school run by nuns and is also the Mother House of their order. The school is run by the Mother Superior (Rosalind Russell). Mary and Rachel become fast friends on the train ride to the school and when they arrive they are inseparable. They love to pull pranks and just try to have a good time and get by for as long as they have to be at that school. Mother Superior tries to keep the girls in line and run the school as well as she can.
As the movie progresses, we get to see how Mary reacts to the school and how she grows. The film quickly covers several years of their education but it doesn't feel as if it is jumping around too much. We see the transformation of Mary Clancy and while the ending comes as a little bit of a surprise, it really shouldn't.
"The Trouble with Angels" is a wonderful, good-hearted movie that is perfect for the whole family. There are complaints that this DVD is in the pan and scan format rather than the widescreen OAR that it should be in, but knowing that that is the only format available we have to understand that this is likely the only opportunity to own "The Trouble with Angels" that we will have. The purist in me wants the widescreen, but the rest of my just loves this movie and is glad to have it available at all
6 Terrific movie, BUT...
Why, oh why, did Columbia TriStar home video release this movie NON-letterboxed? At least half a dozen times on this DVD there's some little bit of action that's on or outside the edge of the screen (e.g., when Reverend Mother takes the $10 Rachel won for the dress she made--her hand with the bill in it is off-screen!!). VERY frustrating! Of course, like a jerk, I'll probably buy this DVD all over again when Sony TriStar finally decides to release this gem letterboxed. But, that's probably why they do it this way, eh? For now, however, they lose two stars for boneheadedness.
7 TROUBLE WITH ANGELS - Wide Screen
It is great to have Trouble with Angels come out in DVD, but why did it not come out in it's original aspect ratio. It is not an inexpensive DVD. It was either filmed in 1.66 which is not much to worry about, but if it was filmed in 1.85 we have lost some of the feel and picture.
It definately was not filmed in 1.33, as when the movie starts it states "made to fit your t.v." , plus almost every movie after 1953 was letterboxes with exceptions.
I hope the movie is released again in letterbox, but it is doubtful since it has already been released.
8 Great movie, but why standard screen only?
This is one of my all time favorite guilty pleasure flicks. I'm not going to give a detailed review of the film because there are some very fine ones already here. I would just like to know, why, why, why, was this film and it's fun sequel, "Where Angels Go, Trouble follows," only produced in fullscreen format? I had been looking forward to the DVDs to see them restored, and in widescreen. I was so disappointed to find out they weren't. Were they shot with a fullscreen format? I'd sleep better knowing that was the case. If not, who dropped the ball on this one?
9 DVD technical details
For those who are outside the US like me, and are not sure if this DVD works on "Region-free" DVD players.
I played this DVD on both my "Region-free" DVD player at home and on my "Region-free" DVD on my personal computer, and it worked on both.
Hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
10 Classic!
What a wonderfully lovely, entertaining and silly comedy. Rosalind Russell is perfect for this role as is Haley Mills.
This movie is pure clean fun and a definite classic!
It's perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon or a cozy winter day.
11 wonderful and hilarious
I was around 11 when I saw this at the theatre when it first came out.I loved it then and still do. I have watched it many times on television and have just ordered it on dvd. it is really funny and also a little sad, but mostly just really enjoyable entertainment.
12 this is a great movie for kids
I love this movie! When I was a kid my sister and I would always watch this when it was on television. It's just a fun and happy feel good movie, great for kids
13 Reverend Mother says: "Pots. Till the end of the term."
There is no point for anyone to purchase this DVD! A video tape of the film can be found for less money and the same pedestrian pan and scan presentation.
Though I don't know what "extras" from the film are available, I have my own "Dream Version" of "The Trouble With Angels". TTWA should be teamed with its sequel on one disc. Both the film and the sound should be digitally enhanced, impoved, and restored for clarity. (The music soundtrack from TTWA is wonderfully haunting and Mr Goldsmith's composition deserves the best sonics). Both films need to be presented in their original aspect ratio, which I'm sure is anywhere from 1:66 to 1:85. Trailers from each film are needed. Any "Featurettes" or "Making Of" documentaries would be icing on the cake. A running commentary featuring Hayley Mills, June Harding, and Stella Stevens would be a "blast". If bios of the cast and Ida Lupino, the director, were included, I would click the "Buy" button instantly, even at twice the current prices.
However, I most definitely will NOT be purchasing this useless DVD version. I even HATE the covers! My "dream" TTWA uses the cartoon and characters from the credits for the clamshell front cover with the back cover showing the cartoon window and candle listing all the wonderful new, additional features in this "Special Edition" release.
Come on Columbia/TriStar! Show a little respect for a film about an era when it was "OKAY" to be educated and disciplined at school. A modernized version of these films may make people long for such attentions. Or is that the entire point of this inept release? You don't want its return or you're too young to know what it was like? That's your loss. I want to remember.
This DVD version is severely disappointing. I hate to think what Reverend Mother would say. It'll be pots for you for the rest of your life. Ah, but what could've been...
14 Love this movie!
I enjoyed this movie very much. Hayley Mill's portrayal as a child with scathingly brilliant ideas was great as was June Harding as the bumbling but mischeivous follower. Rosalin Russell played a very convincing nun. I highly recommend this movie.
15 This Movie Deserves Better
I will not purchase this wonderful film until it is available in widescreen.
16 Not Widescreen?!
I've been waiting ages for this to be released on DVD. Imagine my disappointment in discovering that it isn't available in widescreen format! Why? What a let-down. I cancelled my order immediately. I'll wait until they come to their senses.
17 Another dvd hack job
What a really terrific film that was both comic and reverent at the same time. The sequel Where Angels Go Trouble Follows was equally entertaining and a lot of fun although it would have been better had the ending been different without showing modernism gaining it's hold in the church. The character of Sister George unfortunately was one who did not understand her vocation.
Anyway, I jumped at the chance of owning these on dvd but quickly cancelled my order when I discovered these high priced dvds were not released in widescreen. I'm glad to see so many complaining about this and I wish every fan of these movies would boycott the purchase until the studios got the message to give us better quality.
18 Great Movie-- Unacceptable 4:3 Pan and Scan Format
Wonderful movie-- and what a disappointment that it is only released in 4:3 pan and scan format. Like many others, I never liked the black bars on top and bottom of my standard television, but since buying a new widescreen TV these widescreen DVDs are just wonderful. With only a few exceptions today's widescreen DVDs are "anamorphic" or "enhanced for widescreen TV" which is the same way of saying that the picture is actually on all 480 active scan lines (no black bars). Note that until you change the set-up menu of your DVD player, the DVD player itself is supplying the black bars for use with standard TV. Once you tell your DVD player to output for a new widescreen TV, the black bars are gone and the anamorphic (or tall and skinny) picture is ready to be stretched across a wide screen. Check your DVD player set-up menu; this option is there ready for use once you have a wide screen.
19 it doesn't get any better
there are not many things in life that have an impact on you, but those that do will never be forgotten. Most people believe that everyone is the same throughout their entire life with very minimal change, but it does occur to me that we change on a constant basis, although somewhat slowly. This is a story of girls turning into women, caring initially about themselves only and continuing on to care about more than they should have to, even as adults. Funny, sad at times, not many, but enough,and a real look at the minds of teenagers growing into adults. Nothing better.
20 I'm Waiting For a Widescreen DVD!
I saw the Trouble with Angels on TV in widescreen and I was happy when I read that this this delightful movie was finally coming out on DVD but that was until I found out that it wouldn't be in widescreen but instead an edited pan and scan. What a letdown! This movie is funny and delightful and stars Rosalind Russell and Hayley Mills as a nun and student at an all girls Catholic boarding school who clash from the get go as Hayley's character is a real handful! I don't want to have an edited pan and scan DVD so I think I will wait until a widescreen DVD comes out so until than I will just tape The Trouble with Angels from that classic movie channel that always shows the movie in widescreen.
21 I'm Waiting For a Widescreen DVD!
I saw the Trouble with Angels on TV in widescreen and I was happy when I read that this this delightful movie was finally coming out on DVD but that was until I found out that it wouldn't be in widescreen but instead an edited pan and scan. What a letdown! This movie is funny and delightful and stars Rosalind Russell and Hayley Mills as a nun and student at an all girls Catholic boarding school who clash from the get go as Hayley's character is a real handful! I don't want to have an edited pan and scan DVD so I think I will wait until a widescreen DVD comes out so until than I will just tape The Trouble with Angels from that classic movie channel that always shows the movie in widescreen.
22 WIDESCREEN
It is wonderful that they are bringing out The Trouble with Angels, but it should have been done letterboxed. The problem is , it probably won't be released again. All movies should be released in their original aspect ratio or given the option on the dvd.
23 Love the movie, hate the "pan and scan"
This is one of those unsung, "It's a Wonderful Life" movies .. so why is it not offered in widescreen? The "pan-and-scan" destroys its original character. Wait to purchase until in comes out in widescreen, but rent it and watch it now! It's wonderful.
24 Bum DVD of Great Movie
Was so glad to see that TWA was finally getting some DVD respect, but when I read here that this DVD will not be letter-boxed I cancelled my pre-order.
25 5 star movie....but....pan and scan???
Come on Columbia Home Video, do justice to this and its sister movie "Where Angels Go, Trouble Follows" and release them in "widescreen"!!!! These are such great, vastly underrated movies, it appears even Columbia doesn't think enough of them that they would give them this shabby treatment.
Anyway, if you get a chance to see them (on Turner Classics), they are WONDERFUL movies.
26 Pan & Scan DVD - how disappointing!
Rosalind Russell is without doubt my favourite actress. What a versatile performer and genuinely good person she was. Roz appeared in many great films (she made 51 films in total), of which only a handful is available on DVD. These include "Auntie Mame", "His Girl Friday" and "Picnic". So, when the release of this delightful film and its sequel, "Where Angels Go...Trouble Follows", was announced as coming soon on DVD I was ecstatic. Coming from Columbia Home Video (who released both "Picnic" and "His Girl Friday") I expected the very best in preparation and presentation.
What a disappointment to learn that this film and its sequel are to be released in pan and scan versions only. My question is...WHY??? In this day and age where widescreen televisions are so popular and where we have come to expect fully restored versions with plenty of bonus features on DVD Columbia offers what is essentially only part of each film. And, at full price! Additionally, "The Trouble With Angels" is regularly shown on cable TV in a widescreen print so one is available! Roz deserves much better!
I for one will not be purchasing this release. My advice: don't buy only part of this film. Columbia Home Video, if you read this review, do right by Roz and release both these films in their entirety!
27 Totally Heart Warming Excursion into a Simpler Time
"The Trouble With Angels", is one of those films that takes you back to your own childhood when life seemed alot simpler and nicer than in our present day hussle and bussle. I have always had a particular fondness for this charming story set in a Girl's Catholic Boarding School because of the terrific characters, the sentimental yet wise message it puts across and because it came along just as cinemea was moving into more adult themes leaving behind forever the innocence of alot of early 1960's movie making. I think all of us who have been through the school system in any part of the world can at least partly recognise things from our own school days in this funny and touching story.
"Angels" relates the story of the misadventures of two young girls, wilful Mary Clancy (Hayley Mills in one of her most endearing roles) and her offsider Rachel Devery (June Harding) who reluctantly join the convent school of St. Francis. During the course of their years there the two rebels proceed to turn that establishment upside down with many madcap schemes that are always based on a "scathingly brilliant idea" to borrow Mary's usual exclamation, much to the utter despair of the Convent's formidable Mother Superior (Rosalind Russell in a wonderful performance). Being the leader of the two Mary finds herself locking horns on repeated occasions with the Rev. Mother until both begin to see and indeed admire aspects of each other's characters not at first evident. This appreciation however only develops after many trying clashes of personality usually at the Rev. Mother's expense ranging from smoking in the toilets, to placing bubble bath in all the sister's tea, to falsely calling out the fire brigade, to getting very revealing costumes for the school band etc. However in the course of all these clashes Mary and Rev. Mother both start to see the real individuals under the outward facade. Mary begins to realise that Rev. Mother has a warm heart and a creative side as seen in the beautiful dress making scene, and Rev. Mother begins to realise that Mary is just someone who is desperate to be loved and cared for. The surprise twist of an ending which I wont reveal here brings the characters full circle and provides the story with its wonderfully sentimental conclusion after much merry high jinks.
What makes this beautiful little film such a great viewing experience is the great talent brought together in this story. Ably directed by former actress Ida Lupino, she here displays a wonderful understanding of female characters and how they best relate together. Rosalind Russell had I feel one of her best later day roles as the stern but caring Rev. Mother and displays a wonderful comic timing in her scenes with the girls and the other nuns. She is really one of the best parts of "The Trouble With Angels", and brings her years of expert comedy experience to the role without demeaning the characters overall integrity one bit. Hayley Mills and June Harding as the two rebellious students do fine work and bring all the necessary dimension to their two characters to make their development throughout the story entirely believable. The actresses who play the various nuns in the story also add tremendously to the quality of this film. Foremost Mary Wickes as the wacky Sister Clarissa, Marge Redmond as the lovely and untimately tragic Sister Liguori, and Binnie Barnes, Dolores Sutton and Judith Lowry all in their own unique way bring special qualities to the story. The film even boasts a cameo appearance by non other than Gypsy Rose Lee as an Avant Garde Movement teacher in a very funny sequence which once again drives the poor Rev. Mother to distraction. Each in turn either make us laugh or cry and are the special people that make watching "The Trouble With Angels", such an enjoyable experience. Like all good comedies there are moments of sentiment and drama in among the laughs and Mary's viewing of the Nuns at prayer during the Christmas season and in particular the scenes after Sister Liguori's death really succeed in creating quiet special moments in among the mayhem.
This type of innocent storytelling from our childhood really couldn't be made today as effectively and it's that "time capsule" quality to "The Trouble With Angels", that makes it required viewing for me at least during each Christmas Season. It reminds me of simpler times and the values we were hopefully brought up with. If you enjoy veteran actresses in quality roles or just enjoy sentimental comedy of a very innocent kind then it would be a "scathingly brilliant idea" to check this little comedy out, you wont regret it!!! Enjoy
28 My favorite Hayley Mills movie
Going to a Catholic School I could idenitfy with the girls in Throuble With Angels. I loved Hayley Mills in this movie. I had often wished that I had Mary's personality. I was more like Rachel (June Harding), on the quiet side. I wish the Nuns I had were more like Rosalind Russell (strict but fair). Mary Wicks was perfect in her role also.
29 Elizabeth's movie
I wanted to see this movie because I heard that it was supposedly Elizabeth Smart's favorite. Well, I recieved it in a normal to good time frame and although I did not love the movie, it was pretty good. I hold high morals and the slight offenses in this movie, although not too bad, seemed to bother me a little. There was nothing really that bad, but, like I said, I have very limited tolerance of even the little things in movies and in life. Thank you for the movie though!
30 Learning By Example
Hayley Mills and June Harding star as young girls sent to a convent school who manage to raise a little "hell". Actually, their antics seem pretty tame these days, but it's the spirit that counts. Rosalind Russell stars as the Mother Superior who must find the patience and humour to deal with the girls. The movie is episodic, moving from one backfiring plan of the girls to the next. From episode to episode, however, Mills gradually learns from the example set by the nuns and how they conduct themselves with humility and purpose. She does a great job showing her character's gradual evolution. Russell is commanding and honest and touching as the Reverend Mother. Director Ida Lupino does a good job of balancing the gentle humour with the more dramatic moments of character revelation, and the musical score by Jerry Goldsmith really contributes to a number of scenes. Not the funniest or greatest film ever made, The Trouble With Angels does succeed in showing us the value of humility and serving others without ever seeming preachy.
31 The important thing in life is not to yield, but to choose
"The Trouble with Angels" is one of those films where the whole is greater than the sums of the part. Worldly Mary Clancy (Haley Mills) constantly has "scathingly brilliant" ideas and drags her innocent best friend Rachel Devery (June Harding) into all sorts of hi-jinks at the St. Francis Academy for Girls, a Catholic School lorded over by one of the more formidable Mother Superiors in movie history, played by Rosalind Russell. Mary has modern views and has never seen a rule she was not interested in breaking, while Rachel wishes with all of her heart to be more like her friend. Based on the novel by Jane Trahey, the screenplay by Blanche Hanalis offers by a very episodic story as Mary and Rachel get in and out of trouble over and over again. Yet every time Mary and Mother Superior butt heads each earns a bit more respect from the others. More importantly, they come to understand each other.
The original tagline for this film was that it was "a habit forming comedy," which is a rather ironic description given the film's rather surprise ending. Like Rachel, at first glance what happens at this end of this film is a complete shock. But upon reflecting-or watching the film a second time-it becomes clear that this is a film about finding something better. It is not surprising that Rosalind Russell captures the comedy of the Reverend Mother, but what might surprise you is how she provides the heart and soul of the film as well. I also want to recognize Jerry Goldsmith's score for this film and the way he takes the title theme and turns it into both the St. Francis marching band's song and appropriately religious sounding music for a key moment in the film. An excellent use of a basic theme in myriad ways. The title sequence was created by Fritz Freleng and David H. DePatie.
"The Trouble with Angles" is a not a great film, but it is a solid, moving story that sneaks up with its message through the laughter and tears. I find myself watching this film every time I come across it on television, which probably speaks more to its strengths than anything, because I have never been a big Haley Mills fan. You should recognize Mary Wickes as Sister Clarissa, seeing as how she played another albeit more memorable nun in the "Sister Act" movies. Of course the movies are quite similar in terms of having a large cast of nuns who as distinct and interesting characters (who can ever forget Marge Redmond as Sister Liguori?). Finally, keep an eye out for Gypsy Rose Lee as Mrs. Mabel Dowling Phipps, who teaches interpretive movement...
32 "Logouri, you've won your last race."
When Rosalind Russell says that line white she is kneeling and has her arms spread over the coffin with Hayley Mills looking on and the background music playing the movie theme song softly, i bust into tears every time.This is a wonderful ageless coming of age movie about a catholic girls school and being brought up the proper way more or less. Of course for Hayley Mills and her side kick friend it one little troublesome task after another. This is a brilliant comedy but with alot of really touching moments. As hard a you will laugh at the pranks that take place you will cry just as hard for the beauty that is also shown in the lessons learned.This is a wonderful family movie with extremely high values, high energy, good humor, a termendious amount of love and just a great all around american film.Next to Gypsie, i rank this as one of Rosalind Russell's best films. Of course Hayley Mills no matter what she is in is a joy to watch. Just wish this film was on DVD. Please buy it, it's a great addition to any video library.
33 Fun and fast and easy
First, Mr. Bukala...the setting in the film is Lindenwold Castle in Ambler, Pennsylvania and it is still there.
OK..in terms of family entertainment, this is fun and not offensive. The hijinks of the young stars and the exasperation of Mother Superior are timeless. It WAS a simpler time and this film projects that very well.
Clever scripting makes this fun and the photography of the grounds make it very special.
34 A SPECIAL FILM!!
This film is deeply touching, extremely humorous at times, and beautifully executed by the cast and adept director, Ida Lupino. It's about two newly enrolled juveniles whose greatest joy in life is pulling pranks on the unsuspecting. And Mother Superior's attempts to achieve some order.
Roz Russell carries the film with her intelligence and strength. She is fascinating in the role of Mother Superior. Hayley Mills is saying goodby to her childhood, both on and off screen. And it is a wonderful goodby. June Harding, who plays her best friend, is perfectly supporting. Everyone adds to the film. The convent and its grounds are beautifully caught by the cinematographer, and the surprise ending is very satisfying.
If you have children, this movie will be a delight for them. If you are a child at heart, the movie will speak to you. This is also a film about women, and there is something soft and tender feelingwise and thinkingwise in the film's ambience.
I loved it. And I am not young. At least not in years.
35 Funny and Very Charming Film For The Entire Family
Smartly paced direction and sparkling performances highlight this extremely funny and ultimately touching story of two prankster teenage girls who run riot through a Catholic boarding school--and who, almost in spite of themselves, develop in maturity and spirituality in sometimes unexpected ways.
Ida Lupino is generally best remembered as a noir-ish actress of the 1940s and 1950s--but she was an accomplished director as well, and THE TROUBLE WITH ANGELS possesses a remarkably stable feel that bespeaks Lupino's talents. The script is funny without being frantic and spiritual without being sentimental and the cinematography is simple yet often elegant. But the real sparkle of the film comes from the extremely enjoyable performances offered by an ensemble cast led by Rosalind Russell as the formidable Reverend Mother and Haley Mills and June Harding as her problem students. Russell gives one her best performances here, Haley Mills is her equal every step of the way, and June Harding is equally enjoyable; the truly memorable supporting cast includes the likes of Binnie Barnes and Gypsy Rose Lee. A truly fun and sometimes touching film to which you will likely return again and again, well worth the investment. Recommended.
36 "The Sixties at it's Sweetest!"
"The Trouble with Angels" is a good basic movie that everyone can watch. Not a new story, but the cast dose make it very funny.
Children who watch it will no doubt remember then 18 years old Hayley Mills from much of her Disney movies.
Mills (along with new comer, June Harding) are determand to turn St. Frances up side down with their silly pranks. Most of which are targeted at Mother Superior played by the legendary Roz Russell. (whom is very good in the role. Particularly after years of her very Auntie Mameish and buisness women characters. And a good movie to get your little one's exposed to Miss Russell. I was a sceptic at first, but she pulled it off. But the again, was there any doubt?) Also in the cast is very funny Mary Wicks, Binnie Barns and one great scence with Gypsy Rose Lee. (Strangely enough, Rosalind Russell played her mother four years before in the movie musical, "Gypsy.")
With the fine direction of Ida Lupino, the great Jerry Goldsmith adds a nice touch with his conducting of the very sweet music .
A nice movie for the whole family.
37 35 years later.....
This evening, I turned on the Christmas tree lights, sat back in my easy chair, and once again watched The Trouble With Angels. While most of the country is watching It's A Wonderful Life, it is TTWA that puts me in the Christmas spirit. Watching Mary Clancy grow from a prankish girl into a mature woman is truly inspiring. This is one of my favorite movies of all time because of all the emotions that are present: love, fear, happiness, sorrow, and best of all - the joy of discovering oneself.
35 years after the initial release of The Trouble With Angels, I am STILL in love with Hayley Mills! When is this movie going to be released in DVD format?
38 35 years later.....
This evening, I turned on the Christmas tree lights, sat back in my easy chair, and once again watched The Trouble With Angels. While most of the country is watching It's A Wonderful Life, it is TTWA that puts me in the Christmas spirit. Watching Mary Clancy grow from a prankish girl into a mature woman is truly inspiring. This is one of my favorite movies of all time because of all the emotions that are present: love, fear, happiness, sorrow, and best of all - the joy of discovering oneself.
35 years after the initial release of The Trouble With Angels, I am STILL in love with Hayley Mills! When is this movie going to be released in DVD format?
39 Marvellous Roz
This would be just an enjoyable, somewhat silly little movie, if it wasn't for Rosalind Russell's magnificent performance as the Mother Superior. Projecting dignity, warmth, and a great sense of interior faith and calm, she single-handedly pulls this movie onto a completely different plane, making certain scenes extremely moving. Roz herself was a very devout Catholic, and it shows. I have always had the feeling (seconded by one of her relatives) that of all the roles she played, this was the closest to her own personality; strong, lethally witty, somewhat domineering, with that great interior dignity, faith and calm that I mentioned already. Hayley Mills and June Harding (whatever happened to her?) are however certainly worth watching as well.
I'm sorry Roz wasn't still alive to play the Mother Superior in "Sister Act"!
40 "That's a blast...."
"The Trouble with Angels" is a cute, innocuous movie whose humor, unfortunately, doesn't always translate well from the 1960s to the new century. Mary Clancy (Hayley Mills) and Rachel Devery (June Harding) are thrown together at St. Francis Academy, a Catholic girls' school run by nuns and administered by Mother Superior (Rosalind Russell). The two girls chafe at the rigidity of the routine at the school and end up pulling a series of juvenile pranks based on Mary's "scathingly brilliant ideas" (which, it needn't be said, are only marginally clever at best). This, of course, displeases Mother Superior and gets the girls in trouble on a regular basis. However, the school gradually has a profound effect on Mary, giving rise to a surprise ending.
The film must likewise have had an effect on me, as I named my daughter Devery after the June Harding character.
41 One of the funniest Hayley Mills films
Hayley Mills made this picture after she was grown up and on her own. This is a story of 2 teenagers going to a Catholic boarding school. Their behavior will have you howling with laughter. Rosalind Russell plays the poor Mother Superior who must deal with these young women. Ida Lupino directed this film.
42 "I'm not a child, Madame - I'm a midget with bad habits!"
What a fun movie! It has been a favorite of mine for many years. Rosalind Russell is superb, as is Hayley Mills. As a child, I loved watching Mills' performances in Disney films, but this non-Disney film remains my favorite. Mary (Mills) and Rachel, her easily-influenced sidekick, seem determined to drive Mother Superior (Russell) insane. The two have a positive GENIUS for trouble, and we see them bluster their way through dance class, marching band, clandestine cigarette smoking, gym class, bra-buying trips, and, consequently, frequent pot-scrubbing assignments. Perhaps the nicest part of the movie is how Mary gains maturity and insight as she learns to appreciate Mother Superior and the other nuns. A truly funny, sweet movie, suitable for the entire family.
43 Surely an aberration - a truly feminist film from Hollywood?
In 1966, for some reason, Hollywood offered two films about Catholic convents and female collectives. The first, directed by a man (Sidney Lumet's 'The Group'), predictably defined its women by men, sex and neurosis. It isn't very good. This wonderful film, written and directed by women, and in which men are inefffectual or caricatured, is truly feminist, and explores less cliched issues like friendship, loyalty, community, creativity, faith. Clothes are a crucial motif here, literally and symbolically, visualising the way characters have to negotiate their genders, societies, personalities, and future. The film is emotionally generous too, using point of view to highlight the limitations of each chracter and their growing awareness.
44 "Hayley's Scathingly Brilliant Idea Ever!"
19-year-old Hayley Mills was now on her way to getting the roles she wanted. In "The Trouble With Angels",Hayley plays Mary Clancy,a rambuncious 18-year old who drinks,swears,and smokes. When she meets Rachel Devry(played by June Harding),she says a famous line that will go down in history: "I got the most scathingly,brilliant idea!" With that,Mary and Rachel cause a lot of trouble at St. Francis. Mother Superior(Rosalind Rusell) puts a stop to Mary's shenanigans,but Mary does what she wants to.
My favorite scene is when Rachel says good-bye to Mary after graduation. Hayley could've gotten a Dramatic Award for her performance. "The Trouble With Angels" also made its way for a sequel in 1968:"When Angels Go,Trouble Follows". Hayley was absent in that one,but the original cast welcomed Stella Stevens as Mary Clancy.
45 A movie that grows on you.
I first bought this movie for my children. At first I just viewed it as a lighthearted film with a nice end message. I now view it as a deep movie with an important message that builds throughout. This message is especially good for Children even young children (I can't understand the PG rating) but also for adults as well. I now use this video as a teaching aid.
When you view the film note the reactions of Mary to being in the old folks home at Christmas. She puts up a front of anger against her already melting heart. She went from a brat to a feeling young woman, but it took a great deal of time for this to occur.
A remarkable film. Buy it for someone young and help them to understand the complete movie and not just the pranks of the children, which is what most kids find the most entertaining part about the film, at least at first anyway.
46 The trouble with Angels
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I would consider this my all time favorite movie.It is very funny and very real to me. I am a male and product of a Catholic education during the 1960's.I learned under the tutelage of the School Sisters of Notre Dame. My great aunt was a nun for 75 years when she finally died. Haley Mills and Rosalind Russell did an outstanding job of acting in this classic film. The moments of joy, sadness and sterness were acted out with such realism. Mother Superior was strict as well as witty. She was well respected. That is how she won the heart of Mary Clancy. If you are Catholic you will love this nostalgic film and learn to appreciate what the good sisters sacrificed for us.It was by their good example that many followed in their footsteps. The gothic sets which represent the interior of the convent and chapel are beautifully decorated. The exterior of this medieval convent was also very ornate. The convent grounds were also nicely landscaped. The Convent itself is located somewhere in Pennsylvania. I would love to go there and see if the old convent is still standing. You can view more of the school grounds in the sequel. The sequel is good but the original film is better. Watch this film once and you will want to watch it again. It is a classic!
47 Just enough Nunsense
Made just around the time of Vatican II, TTWA really did credit to Trahey's book, which I also recommend to those who appreciate this film. It is also a movie that does not "bash" Catholicism and Holy Orders. Nowadays there are so many "smart"(??) films that bash religion, it is nice to watch such a warm, feminine film, obviously made with love for the idea of cloistered life, if not for the external, patriarchal Church itself. My mom (Mary!)and her twin went to Catholic school in Quincy IL in the 40s. They say the nuns were pretty much like in the movie. Hardworking, strict! Today, you can't find a nun or a convent anymore...In this sense the film is also a piece of nostalgia. I also thought the musical score, alternatively zany and piously lyrical, really carries the film's episodic scenes along. Through and through, a sparkling gem of a film!
48 "Hayley's Scathingly Brilliant Idea Ever!"
At 20,Hayley Mills finally got out of her Disney contract,and found something she really liked. In "The Trouble With Angels", Hayley plays Mary Clancy,a girl who likes to make trouble. June Harding plays her sidekick Rachel Devry. When they arrive at St. Francis-- a Catholic school,Mary finds out she's reckless with Rachel on board. Rosalind Russell plays Reverend Mother in this hilarious film that will make you watch it again and again!
Famous Quote: At the end of the movie,Mary says "Who knows,Reverend Mother. Maybe Rachel might come back someday" Reverend Mother says "If she does,I quit!"
49 Scathingly brilliant comedy
Bubbles floating out of teacups. Nuns jumping into swimming pools. All part of everyday life at St. Francis Catholic School... since Mary Clancy and Rachel Deverey joined the school. In this clever and witty movie, Hayley Mills (Mary) and her pal June Harding (Rachel) come to the "perfectly medieval" St. Francis Catholic School. Running the school is a no-nonsense Mother Superior (played to perfection by Rosalind Russell) who is intent on running the school with a firm but patient hand. However, her patience is severely tested when Mary and Rachel use some of Mary's "scathingly brilliant ideas" as practical jokes on the unsuspecting Sisters. The convent is soon turned upside down by the two infamous youngsters, and the driven-to-distraction Mother Superior contemplates expelling the pair. But there may still be a shed of hope for the girls... The script makes for many golden scenes, and Ida Lupino's straight-to-the-point direction keeps the film interesting even when it moves slowly. The supporting players are also memorable: Mary Wickes is great as the gung-ho Sister Clarissa, Marge Redmond is warm and charming as Sister Liguori, and a post-"Sound of Music" Portia Nelson plays another nun, the uptight Sister Elizabeth. And Gypsy Rose Lee makes a most memorable (but sadly brief) cameo appearance as an eccentric dance instructor. This is a rare film that will have the viewer rolling on the floor and finding a heartwarming story among the glorious chaos. A great film, one to watch with the whole family.
50 I've got the most scathingly brilliant idea!
Why not do a modern remake of this movie, (keeping it as clean as possible, as I'm sure that some things in the original were "racey" in the 1960s) but this time star Hayley Mills as Mother Superior? Yes, this is my all-time favorite movie, as is "His Girl Friday" also starring a much younger Rosalind Russell. I never connected the female leading actress as being the same person until last year and I've grown up loving both movies. I have attribute my own mischief to "Fleur De Lys" and "Kim Novak" and I pray that my 2 year old daughter, who already knows and requests to watch this movie at least once a week, doesn't learn too much about becoming a likely candidate for San Quentin too early in life. I thank my mother for getting me interested in such classic movies as this one. Now, let's bring it back!
51 Great movie-great book
I certainly agree with all the other reviews..wonderful comedy. No one mentioned, however, that this movie was based on a wonderful book called Life with Mother Superior, by Jane Trahay. It recounts her schooldays. I highly recommend the book for anyone who enjoyed the movie.
52 The best movie I've ever seen!
This movie is the funniest movie I've ever seen. It kept me laughing and laughing. Hayley Mills is one of the best actors I've seen. This a must buy video.(I've watched it 17 times in the last two years.)
53 All-time family favorite!
If you grew up going to Catholic school, you gotta love this one! Hayley Mills as a troublesome student in cahoots with her gawky best friend to outwit Mother Superior (Rosalind Russell)and break all the rules. Funny, warm, and touching. Some priceless scenes and dialogue. Whatever happened to June Harding? My sister and I watch this movie every time I'm home for Christmas. We know every line by heart but are still in tears at the end! I met Hayley Mills a few years ago in London and got an autograph. She still has that 'Angelic' charm. Highly recommend this video!
54 Surprisingly Good
Looking for a movie to watch over Christmas break, i went to the library and picked out a few. The Trouble With Angels was a spur of the moment with no reason. As a sidenote, i'm a 21 year old male. I watched it, and was charmed. I wouldn't say the movie is perfect, but the acting fits the movie perfectly. The movie is charming. That's the best word for it. It is funny, touching, heartwarming, and a movie fit for the whole family. I even went out and bought it right after Christmas. It is now one of my favorite movies. And i'm young still.
55 rosalind russell's best
This movie is one of russell's best she transitions from comedy to drama like no one can. A seemingly pious sheltered nun with a will of iron pitted against two rebellious boarding school teens who loathe her. But, they soon find out the depth and compassion of this mother superior. It will change one of the girls'lives forever. You'll laugh and cry and want to see more. After many years still one of my favorites
56 Hayley The Angel
This is a movie that i like a LOT (yes and i am a guy) ! I first saw this movie about 15 years ago and have liked it ever since then . I like Hayley Mills and i like this time era for movies (50s to the 60s) . I like ALL types of movies but this one has a hold on me . My biggest wish is the release of the LTBX DVD of it . Lets get going on it Columbia ! This film also has its share of double meanings ? Great film... BUY it !
57 An Ageless Classic
After Thirty-three years this movie still wears well. It remains one of the most entertaining films I've ever had the pleasure to enjoy.
58 Scathingly brilliant
This is a classic and I love it very much! It makes me laugh and makes me cry. Rent it and force everyone in the house to watch it - they'll thank you.
59 MY FAVORITE MOVIE!!!
This is my all time favorite movie! My mom and I told me about it and I watched it with my best friend we love it and talk about it all the time. Haley Mills is great in it. My fave part is at the graduation. Even though it's the end of the movie all the girls look so beautiful now this is my favorite movie!!
60 I love Haley Mills in this one -- an actor all grown up!
I've appreciated Haley Mills in anything she's ever done, but in this movie she's splendid. She always made the most of any script she was given, but here she shows us the comedic range of her abilities. She appears for the first time in this particular role as a "woman" actor, not just a child actor in the late stages. One can see her touch in both frivolity and seriousness. I really saw the potential as she emerged in this film. She and Rosalind Russell come together beautifully in the throws of the youthful energy that both portray. I love it. It's my favorite Haley Mills movie. I could see it over and over again.
61 The funniest movie I ever seen!!!
This is the funniest movie I have ever seen(runner up is A Shot In The Dark by Peter Sellers). It's a once in a lifetime comedy that you won't forget.
62 Haley Mills is Ageless
This movie is an absolute "must" for the baby-boomer generation and anyone who loves the classic "family movies". Haley Mills is again wonderful as a mischievous ring leader to the, at times, reluctant follower June Harding. Haley Mills has always been a favorite of mine after seeing Pollyanna in the '60's. Her actor-father John Mills was an extremely gifted and respected English actor and Haley certaining followed in his footsteps. I highly recommend The Trouble With Angels..you'll laugh..you'll cry..you'll love it!
63 I love this movie!!!
I grew up watching Hayley Mills movies and this one is my favorite! I first saw this movie in a theatre at age 15 in 1966...I loved it! Now, at age 47, it is still a delight!!! Rosalind Russell is excellent as Mother Superior and her comedic timing is perfection...what a wonderfully talented lady!!! Additional testimony of this womans' undeniable talent can be seen in the movie, "Gypsy". With both Hayley Mills and Rosalind Russell in this movie, it is a double treat...a charming delight and another Mills classic.
64 Love this movie! Never get tired of it!
This is a real treat. Not deep, but innocent fun and good acting. Hayley Mills and Roz Russell are a great pair, and there are a lot of troupers in the background (Mary Wickes, Marge Redmond, Binnie Barnes, Gypsy Rose Lee) who keep the show on the road. A must for all recovering Catholics!
65 For the adolescent Catholic girl school experience A+
I first saw this film when I was a teenager 'enjoying' all the trials and tribulations of these girls. Now as an adult and a Rosalind Russell fan this movie is funny and poignant on an entirely different level. Women, girls - sit back with the popcorn and enjoy.
