From 1996, we revisit this delightful and cheerful movie by Richard Benjamin. It's one of those films that catches you off guard with its charm, constant humor, and the magnetic presence of the extraordinary Shirley MacLaine.
Mrs. Winterbourne tells the story of Connie Doyle, a pregnant young woman abandoned by her boyfriend, who, without money or a roof over her head, gets swept up in a crowd and mistakenly boards a train. By fate, on the journey, she meets Hugh Winterbourne and his charming wife, Patricia, who is also expecting a baby. However, the train crashes, and Connie wakes up in the hospital, where everyone assumes she is Patricia, Hugh's widow.
The film, with its colorful and bright cinematography, unfolds at a good pace of events that, despite appearing predictable, still have a few surprises in store. Its in media res beginning and its rather pessimistic first 10 minutes certainly do not foretell the kind and entertaining comedy that unfolds later. The amusing and sometimes inverted dynamics between mother and son, and between servant and master, as well as the classic clash of education, manners, and behavior between different social classes, create more than one funny scene and maintain a comedic backdrop throughout the film.
The charisma and shrewdness of Grace (Shirley MacLaine), the Winterbourne mother; the honesty and simplicity of Connie (Ricki Lake); the naivety and sincerity of Bill (Brendan Fraser), Hugh's brother; and the loyalty and spark of Paco (Miguel Sandoval), the Cuban butler, are key to the story. The play and interaction among these characters, with their original and distinct personalities, yet all built on a foundation of kindness, trust, love, and support, are the main attraction of this magnificent feature film.
Mrs. Winterbourne is currently available for rental or purchase on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Google Play and Microsoft.
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