Brother Orchid

"Brother Orchid" is a slight variation on the gangster films which put "Warner Bros" on the map in the first place. Edward G. Robinson is cast once again as a mobster but with a difference. After being frozen out by the mob and left for dead, Robinson finds his way to a monastery. The head monk - well played by Donald Crisp - takes pity on the gangster and offers him a place of shelter and also a new way of life. The results are both amusing and less than successful. I enjoyed what this film has to offer, the story is interesting. Edward G. Robinson dominates "Brother Orchid" but Humphrey Bogart still does his thing. The two have an almighty clash during the climax and it is worth waiting for.

Enjoy this movie for two good reasons right off. Edward G. Robinson and Humphrey Bogart. Then, take in the movie as a time capsule enjoying the sights, sounds and slang's of that era. That's what I like about these older movies. You get to see how things were in that generation and in this case that's nearly 80 years ago. The plot is comedy mixed with gangsters and Hollywood never knows how that will be received until after the fact. In this case, the stars and supporting cast pull it through making it a recommendation not to be missed. There are a few scenes that do trigger the emotions and there is nothing you can do about them but to let them have their way. A good movie does this. I like to eat when I watch movies.I recommend a sandwich with a tasty drink followed by some sweet munch for this one...Enjoy Edward G's mannerisms, facial expressions and tones of voice for he had fun doing them. I had fun receiving them....

Cute little gangster dramedy about a racketeer (Edward G) who finds "real class" in a monastery while on the lam from rival gangsters led by Bogie. Bogie himself (in, thankfully, one of his last supporting roles before stardom) has little presence in the film. Ann Sothern as Edward G's girlfriend steals the movie in whatever scene she's in.

Could've been real dull without the presence of both Robinson and Sothern. As it is, it's alright for a rainy day viewing.

Likable gangster comedy-drama surprises with an unusual, amusing premise and takes it to an uplifting ending; with a superb star cast of the time, but it's mainly the Robinson/Bogart confrontation that livens up the show.

Like many, I picked up Brother Orchid because it was a Bogie film. I have this plan to watch every Bogie movie out there, because I am a huge fan. This was one of his earliest works wherein he played negative characters. Looking charming and cool, Bogie leaves his mark as usual but it is EGR who steals the show here. What a fantastic actor. I loved how his character Little Johnny Sarto evolves through the film. One of the best character development arcs I have seen for comedy/crime genre at the time. He makes us laugh our guts out, then makes us think and empathize with Johnny. EGR is brilliant in every scene he's in. If you enjoy classic comedy/crime genre - you are sure to have a good time watching this one as I did. Watch out the background of the title "Brother Orchid", its an interesting premise. Excellent movie. 8/10.