Clue (1985)

'Clue' is an ensemble mystery comedy written and directed by Johnathan Lynn ('Yes Minister', 'My Cousin Vinny') and based on the classic Parker Brothers board game of the same name. This film version is set in New England in the mid 1950's and is a screwball comedy with satirically McCarthyite overtones. While it takes a little while to get going it builds to a manic energy, which is fun. The film is anchored by Tim Curry's wonderfully committed performance as the butler, while the supporting cast is filled with mid-level names (Michael McKean, Leslie Ann Warren) playing the board games character (Colonel Mustered, Ms. Scarlet ect) trapped together in a creepy old mansion with at least one murder. A box office failure upon initial release this amusing film has since gained a cult following. The conventions of the board game are exploited, at times perhaps a little too much, but I did enjoy the multiple endings (my favorite being the first one). This movie really likes its cleavage shots. ***