Irma La Douce - Billy Wilder

There is such a joy in watching the films of Billy Wilder. And this one has its pleasures and joys as well. Not just because it is about a streetwalker in Paris named Irma La Douce (Irma the sweet), but the story is charming. Yes, it is about a man trying to save a woman from walking the streets, your usual savior complex that some men have towards those in the sex work business. However with a cast like Shirley MacLaine, and Jack Lemmon... you also get slapstick comedy, and a very sweet romance.

Is it a great film? eh. Some of the comedy styles are certainly of the period, but it is still a fun watch. I mean, even the cover art is charming. Do you see how the smoke from the cigarette creates a heart? Interestingly enough, this was also based on a musical. The musical, from 1956, was originally in French and first produced in Paris. It then had a West End production in 1958, and a Broadway production in 1960. Both of these productions were directed by the incredible Peter Brook! I have not listened to the cast recording yet, but I am super curious about Peter Brook directing a musical.