Sunday, May 5, 2024

Classic Movie Flashback 'Arthur' 1981 with Dudley Moore

ARTHUR from WARNER BROS. pictures (1981). The production budget climbed to $7 million and grossed $95 million at the box office. The comedy opened poorly but over the next few months. It became a very popular film by word-of-mouth. That doesn't happen in 2024 as movies count only on their first weekend receipts.

The story surrounds a millionaire named "Arthur" (Dudley Moore) who is a self-proclaimed playboy. He is about to be married to a woman whom he doesn't love. It is arranged by his family. Arthur meets a working-class waitress (Liz Minelli) and falls in love with her. His family threatens to cut him off without a penny if he doesn't follow through with the arranged marriage.

Dudley Moore portrays Arthur as a complete falling down/funny drunk. It is a great comedic performance that earned Moore a Best Actor Oscar Nomination.  

"Arthur" was so popular that a sequel was planned, "Arthur 2: On the Rocks" (1988). It bombed at the box office and with critics. The 2011 remake with Russell Brand was also a bomb.

"Arthur" was nominated with four Academy Awards including Best Actor (Moore) and Best Screenplay (Steve Gordon). The Oscars won with Best Supporting Actor (Sir John Gielgud) and Best Original Song "Arthur's Theme" performed by Christopher Cross.

The comedy film is on Blu-Ray. You can also watch it "Free" online.

Below is the re-mastered Original 1981 Trailer.


The Number #1 Hit Song "Arthur's Theme: Best That You Can Do" performed by Christopher Cross. Movie scenes below were edited into the song.

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