Watch We're No Angels

In the midst of the Christmas season, We're No Angels follows the story of three ex-convicts who escape from prison and seek refuge in a small French town on the coast. The trio consists of Joseph, Albert and Jules, portrayed by Humphrey Bogart, Peter Ustinov, and Aldo Ray, respectively. As they pose as workers for a local store owner, they quickly become entangled in a series of comedic mishaps that tests their newfound sense of morality.

Through a curious set of circumstances, the three convicts take on the role of guardian angels to the local family who owns the store. As they attempt to fix the various troubles plaguing the family, the convicts rediscover their own sense of humanity and goodness. Among the colorful characters of the family, there is Isabelle, the matriarch of the household; her husband, Andre, a bitter businessman; and their daughter, Amelie, whose betrothal to a snooty cousin becomes a source of conflict.

Throughout the course of the film, the trio of convicts plot to carry out their escape, using their new-found morality as a guide. But as they grow attached to the family, the prospect of leaving them behind becomes harder and harder to bear. And when the cynical Andre is gradually transformed by their gentle influences, the convicts must decide whether to follow through on their original escape plan, or stay and face the consequences of their past misdeeds.

Bogart plays Joseph, the leader of the trio, with his signature tough-guy persona giving way to a more lighthearted, humorous approach. Ustinov is comical as the portly Albert, with his talent for quick-witted rejoinders and slapstick comedy. Ray plays the dim-witted Jules, whose earnest efforts endear him to the audience. Together, the three actors create a sense of camaraderie that drives the film's plot.

Directed by Michael Curtiz, whose previous projects included Casablanca, the film has a classic Hollywood feel, with capable direction and excellent cinematography. The picturesque coastal setting is an ideal backdrop for the story, with the serene beauty of the seaside accentuating the action on screen. The score, composed by Frederick Hollander, adds depth and emotion to the film, elevating it from a simple comedic romp to a more nuanced exploration of human experience.

We're No Angels received mixed reviews upon its initial release, with some critics noting the film's formulaic plot and simplistic characterizations. However, it has since become a beloved classic, with its blend of comedy, drama and holiday cheer making it a perennial favorite for viewers of all ages. The film's themes of redemption and moral transformation resonate with audiences, who enjoy the idea that even the most hardened criminals can be redeemed with the help of a little kindness and compassion.

In conclusion, We're No Angels is a timeless holiday classic, with charming performances and a heartwarming message. The film captures the essence of the holiday spirit, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is always room for hope, forgiveness and redemption. Whether viewed as holiday entertainment or as a study of human nature, We're No Angels is a film that will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.

We're No Angels is a 1955 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 51.