Customer Reviews

Last of Sheila [VHS]

5 star:		(39)
4 star:		(15)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

If you love mysteries and are tired of the brainless detective films being released on a regular basis these days, you OWE it to yourself to watch this taut yet darkly sardonic thriller!

The Agatha Christie type script (Death on the river Nile, for instance, where many plausible clues are dropped for attentive members of the audience) is nothing if not supremely intricate and as much of a guesser as I am, the film has me riveted every time I watch it.

With the possible exception of Welch, who may be guilty of being somewhat deadpan as the glam queen, almost every other actor comfortably nails his role. Great timing.

Despite the relatively dry DVD (nothing special in the "special features") I highly, highly recommend this fabulous feast of film. Buy it, for you will watch it more than once for sure.

The Last of Sheila is a love or hate for most folks. I fall into the love category. A GREAT cast beautifully embodies the twisted, neurotic hollywood-types in this whodoneit or even whodonewhat for that matter. The screenplay is full of incredibly witty, sharp dialogue and it layers puzzle upon puzzle until the very end. Then - one last joke at Hollywood's expense before the final credits. Coburn, Benjamin, Cannon and Mason are particularly excellent here. Some flashback twists might get confusing, but keep watching - it pays off beautifully. Oh, and Bette Midler's closing credits number is just the perfect iceing on this multi-layered, very dark chocolate cake. Just excellent!

A murder mystery written by composer Stephen Sondheim (Sweeney Todd) and actor Anthony `She might have fooled me, but she didn't fool my mother' Perkins (it seems both men share an insatiable love of puzzles and games)? And a good one to boot? Whodda thunk it? Yes, it's true...what? You've never heard of it? Neither did I...until now...

The Last of Sheila (1973), directed extremely well by Hollywood veteran Herbert Ross (Play it Again, Sam, The Goodbye Girl, Footloose), stars a formidable cast including the late, great James Coburn, Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon, James Mason, Raquel Welch, Joan Hackett (Will Penny, One Trick Pony), and Ian McShane (Roots).

As the film opens, we witness the death of a woman as she storms from a late party, and, unable to get into her car, decides to hoof it...only to get run down by the side of the road. The woman's name was Sheila, and she was wife to high-powered Hollywood muckety muck Clinton Green (Colburn). A year has past, and now we see Clinton, who has a preponderance for games, on a yacht typing invitations for a weeklong get together he's planning, a seemingly sinister game ultimately revolving around the identity of the person who killed his wife. The invitees were all at the party that fateful night, and include Christine (Cannon), a promiscuous loudmouth Hollywood agent, Tom (Benjamin) and Lee (Hackett), a floundering screenwriter and his trust fund baby wife, Philip (Mason), a washed director, and Alice (Welch) and Anthony (McShane), a once popular actress now treading water relegated to opening shopping malls and such, and her hot-headed leechy husband/manager. All accept the invite, as they have pretty obvious interests in pitching, promoting, or working for Clinton, the well to do Hollywood producer. The game involves a dirty little secret from each of the guests' past, and is of a scavenger hunt of sorts. Things begin well enough, but soon the game takes a deadly turn as one of the participates meets an untimely end, and everyone's a suspect (well, except for the deceased). The rest are left to try and sort out the clues, and discover who among them is a killer.

This is a wonderful little `whodunit' within a `whodunit', full of twists and turns, where little is as it seems. Ross keeps it tight, and the film moves along at a brisk pace. The plot is very complex and intricate, forcing the viewer to pay attention throughout lest he/she miss a critical element. One of the things I really liked was clues present themselves, but, at the time they're presented, they seem completely innocuous and hardly worth a second thought. The mystery is very intelligent as the story rarely speaks down to the viewer, assuming a level of intelligence of its' audience few films expect. The characters were decently developed, which is kind of surprising since there's quite a few of them. James Colburn's character literally and figuratively brings it all together, as the abrasive (he often refers to his guests as `washed up has beens', which may be true, but who likes to hear it?) scheming, trickster having a jolly good time watching his `victims' twist in the wind trying to unravel his elaborate and devious puzzles. One part I found completely disconcerting was Colburn in drag...a more horrifying visage I have yet to see, as Colburn has to be one of the ugliest women I've ever seen, and I fear it shall remain burned in my mind for quite some time, as no amount of alcohol shall wash it away...I though Cannon did very well, as the pushy, cheap and easy, loud mouthed talent agent who has little qualms about wearing her intentions on her sleeve, lacking the basic subtly most have as it would probably work against her in her profession. Benjamin also did well, playing the smart and intuitive screenwriter, now forced mainly to do rewrites, piecing together the clues much as you'd expect someone reasonably talented who deals with scripts, plots, and character development for a living. Mason did well, but he just seemed tired throughout, with brief glimpses of inspiration, but then I wonder if his character was written that way, as the world weary director now forced to direct dog food commercials to make a living. Welch's role seemed a bit light, as did McShane's. Both seemed to make the most of what they had, but ultimately, they were overshadowed by the other talent in the film. Another aspect worth mentioning is the location shots. Each night the yacht stops in a port and the gamers )for lack of a better term) are shuttle to a location with clues meant to lead them to where they'll find the solution for that night's puzzle...the European locales are used very well, and I really liked the incorporating of the old abbey, as it made for a great backdrop. The weakest element of the film, a superficial one at that, was the costuming...I know, I know...the 70's were an awkward period for fashion, but it's really noticeable here...and guess who was in charge of costume design? None other than Joel Schumacher...the man who pretty much single handedly destroyed the Batman film series with his completely awful direction in Batman Forever (1995) and Batman & Robin (1997), but, again, that's an entirely superficial element, and shouldn't dive you away from this clever and meticulous film worthy of multiple viewings as the plot is very complex and one may not pick everything up in one sitting.

The picture here looks pretty good, and the audio is clear which is good as there's a lot of talkie, especially when the mystery is picked apart. Special features include a trailer and a pretty stinky commentary by Benjamin and Cannon. Welch also provided a commentary, and the two tracks were lopsidedly spliced together. Two rotten commentaries cut together make for one hugely hideous mess that should be avoided altogether.

Cookieman108

The first wonderful thing about "The Last of Sheila" directed by Herb Ross is that it's a who-done-it of the first order. The writing by Tony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim is masterful and packed with insider Hollywood dish. The cast is second to none and all working at the top of their form. There are a few particular standout performances. James Mason gives us his restrained all in the pivotal roll of Phillip. He adds in the process this film to his long and distinguished list of credits. Raquel Welsh brings out for our appreciation the famous Raqui figure but also in this, her follow up to her first great roll in "Kansas City Bomber", she shows a little more of her range than most expected or allowed her at the time. Joan Hackett as Lee is touching and brilliant in one of the best rolls of her too short career. The incendiary Dyan Cannon inhabits Christine and with her raucous laugh steals the show from everyone with her thinly veiled "Sue Mengers" Agent to the stars turn. "Somebody get me a glass of water and two Lesbians!" She is pure joy to watch.
The second wonderful thing about "The Last Of Sheila" is that they took the time to ask Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon and Raquel Welsh to do the directors commentary.
This is one of the best commentaries I have heard. It's as if Dyan, Raquel and Richard have just dropped by for a few hours, a few drinks and a walk down memory lane. They reveal in their insightful recollections what fun it was to make "The Last Of Sheila" and in the process show their intelligence, wit and wisdom about the art and business of filmmaking. At one point delighted in the sparkling humor they are both igniting in each other Dyan suggests they do a T.V. show together. Richard suggests the title of "Please Watch Us". Not a bad title, and I would be there with bells on. Raquel shows a deep understanding and humor of her early career and gives some real insight into her developments as and actress. "I would play her stronger now. Not so timid." She says of her roll as Alice. It really is all quite cozy and fun. Hats off to these three wonderful talents for lending so much to the enjoyment of this film. "The Last of Sheila" is a classic film that I hope will find a new fan base due to this sparkling new DVD presentation.

I just finished watching the DVD. This has always been one of my favorite movies. It's not "Casablanca" or "Citizen Kane" but it's not trying to be. It's just a good movie - and I really enjoyed it.

Other reviewers here have discussed the movie itself so I will concentrate on the "extras". There are "previews" as well as a Commentary of the movie. Those participating in the commentary are Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon and Raquel Welch. Benjamin and Cannon were together when they recorded their parts and Welch did hers separately.

I really enjoyed listening to Benjamin & Cannon - it was obvious they had a good time while recording. If you've never seen the movie before, though, don't watch the commentary first - they give away abit too much info about who-done-it. But if you already know, then turn it on and listen away.

Benjamin and Cannon were not smokers yet smoking was part of the plot. They both had fun making fun of him trying to hold and smoke a cigarette. I found myself laughing out loud with them. And they were right - he did look funny. I remembered a scene near the end when he was talking with Raquel Welch's character and he looked like he had a lollipop in his mouth. At one point he leaned in so close, I thought he was going to burn her cheek. During the commentary, he said basically the same thing.

I enjoyed listening to the two of them much more than Welch. It was almost a let-down at times to hear them laugh and then there is Raquel, saying something dull about the movie. "I never really paid attention to who the killer was while filming". *yawn* Meanwhile, Benjamin & Cannon were talking about how the movie cost an astronomical (for the time) $5 million to make the movie and how certain scenes were done.

I would definitely buy this movie again - it's just plain FUN to watch and I really enjoyed the commentary too.

This one's a winner! A good friend recommended it years ago and it's taken me five years to find it. It starts slow and builds and builds and explodes!

Brilliant performances by Dyan Cannon, James Mason, Richard Benjamin and Joan Hackett. Joan Hackett is one of those lost treasures who is an absolute delight in this picture.

The climax is an unbelieveable twist that still packs a realistic punch 30 years after it's release. You'll watch it over and over!

THE LAST OF SHEILA is a perfect movie for anyone who feels like thinking -- but be warned: to follow the plot, you'll have to pay close attention! You may even find yourself watching scenes several times, to make sure you understand the story. The script is witty and intelligent, and the plot is impossibly clever. When you're finished watching it the first time, you'll want to watch it again right away! Every frame contains a "clue" to the mystery, which you'll appreciate more once you know the solution. Don't be misled -- this isn't a "heavy" movie (the ending will remind you not to take it too seriously!). You'll have a lot of fun. Of course, the characters are necessarily cold, so you won't get too attached -- although you'll love Dyan Cannon! James Coburn is positively chilling, and Raquel Welch adds some unintentional humor with her awkward perfomance -- I watched her scenes over and over, just to laugh! However, her acting -- and the hilariously dated clothes and attitudes of the 70s -- are the only weak spots in a terrific film. THE LAST OF SHEILA deserves more attention from movie fans. Just watching will make you feel intelligent -- and it's a must-see for any Sondheim admirer!

This witty complex thriller was written by actor Anthony Perkins (Psycho) and Composer Stephen Sondheim (Sweeney Todd, Into the woods). Directed by Herbert Ross who also directed The Goodbye Girl, Steel Magnolias. Some Incredible actors, sadly some of the actors are no longer with us, James Coburn, Joan Hackett, James Mason, Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon, Ian Mcshane and Raquel Welch give them a yacht for the week with a scenic view of the South of France, throw in an elaborate murder game and what have we got a marvelous mystery puzzle that gets the mind ticking over.

A movie Kingpin Clinton Green (James Coburn) wife Sheila was killed by a hit and run driver the year before, he decides on the first anniversary of her death to host a cruise on his yacht with friends who in turn believe its to talk over a production deal for a new picture. Clinton believes one of the friends knows something about his wife death, so little do they know his devised a theatrical game to be played out as the week commences to flush out unanswered questions.

The Sheila Green Memorial Gossip Game: Every player is given a random card, each card holds a title with a pretend piece of gossip, Rule: no other person is to divulge each others information. Every night they will be sent to a different location with a given clue and a time span to solve the game, the host decides when the game is over, the person who solves the most mysteries by the end of the week wins. Five pieces of gossip, six secrets and a host who underestimates how far players will go to keep skeletons in the closet.

Made in the early seventies, I first watched this film around the early nineties on UK TV and wished I owned a copy then. Purchased a few years ago, hidden away and re-found and re-watched again last night. There are so many great things about this film what a great cast line up all acting is strong apart I felt for Raquel Welch who was a little bit shaky at times in her part, but others I feel may say who needs good acting or words when you look great in a bikini!

I would also like to add because this film was made in the seventies don't expect fast scenes flashing from one to the next (everyone attention span seems shorter these days) there are a couple of very long scenes with the cast discussing ideas and breaking down the mysteries for a good twenty minuets in one room. Some may feel too long but I think those dramatic monologues adds to the quality and mystery of this film.

All the mysteries loop into one another, cleverly plotted, if your watching it for the first time there are inside jokes you won't realize until the finish and clues all over the place, just about every scene or shot has a clue or a piece of trickery, red herrings. In fact there are so many different clues that once the whole film is played out you'll be re-watching it and thinking to yourself how did I miss that! Many funny, witty lines and just about everyone in the film looks like there enjoying themselves. The underlined game brings forward topics and taboos about general life, some are darker topics which I felt were dealt with in the right way it wasn't thrown in our faces, just put out there and discussed.

Thoroughly enjoyable entertainment after all these years recommended to all mystery lovers. For first time viewers all aboard and here's your clue: This is a game where you don't have to move if your smart enough!

Special features included commentary of the film by Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon and Raquel Welch. Theatrical Trailer and subtitles in English French and Spanish.

Andrea Bowhill

Wandering through the CD section of Amazon can sometimes be surprisingly rewarding - especially when you come across a hidden gem like The Last of Sheila. This whodunit with its fantastic 70s cast, wonderful French Riviera sets, and tight scripting will delight traditional mystery fans.

The Last of Sheila is basically a game within a game within a game. It was scripted by Game Fanatics Stephen Sondheim and Anthony Perkins. Clues appear throughout, but you have to have a puzzle solver's mind to get them. If you do, you're bound to enjoy this special film. The solution is complex and rewarding, even if the ending is a little odd.

The French Riviera background is wonderful and is a character all it own. My wife and I visited the monastery on our honeymoon, so seeing it here is a real personal treat. This is a classy production that really uses its location well.

The cast is very 70s, but excellent. Canon, Colburn, and Benjamin steal the show for the most part, but Mason truly shines at the end. Ian McShane also stands out in his younger, hipper, pre-Love Joy days.

Although the extras on this DVD are almost non-existent, the audio commentary by Cannon and Benjamin (and Welch to a lesser extent) stands out. It's full of remembrances and Hollywood name dropping; Benjamin especially shares some great memories of Perkins' love of games and the parties he would throw. I was delighted by their graciousness and warm anecdotes. Cannon and Benjamin obviously taped theirs together, and they play off each other throughout. I assume Welch taped hers separately, which is why it never fits with the other two, so we should cut her some slack.

One minor warning, this is an older movie, developed when people didn't suffer from ADD, and younger audiences will find it a bit talky. Viewers with good attention spans who don't require explosions and constant camera cuts will love it.

The Last of Sheila is the best cat and mouse mystery ever. The cast as an ensemble is fabulous. Raquel Welch is pretty to look at - but cannot stand up to the performances of her colleague's. James Mason and James Coburn are downright delicious, and the late great Joan Hackett's performance as Lee is gripping to say the least. This film can stand up to any mystery ever printed. I truly hope nobody ever tries to re-make this classic... Can anyone say PSYCHO?