Around the World in 80 Days

In some of the details, it’s very original, playful and funny, with nice references to various genre tropes through the settings or the cameos (Buster Keaton on a train). But an hour less wouldn't have hurt; there are many minor conflicts that only serve to delay the climax and complicate the journey of the characters in a contrived way, and there are moments where the script doesn’t even try to coherently connect the segments. David Niven is very good, but otherwise that dull Britishness is too much. (06/04/2019)

Verne's works were a significant part of my childhood. I read every available book by the author, but Around the World in 80 Days was not among my favorites. I didn't find the movies and series based on this theme convincing. That is, until today. A nearly seventy-year-old film from which I didn't expect much surprised me, and it flew by despite its lengthy running time. After all, the creators fit in all eighty days and then some in under three hours. I would say that I didn't enjoy the introductions to different cultures, but even those found their place with me after Phileas Fogg et al. arrived in San Francisco. I learned some new things, so now I know that excessive punctuality is not required for a gentleman's club. I also realized that whist is not just any card game, and I learned how to convert a steamship into a monitor during a voyage. The legends in cameo roles completely blew me away; they were quite a delight. And, of course, I liked Shirley MacLaine as an Indian princess because this can't be done in movies anymore. / Lesson learned: You can't stop progress, but it doesn't hurt to look back occasionally. (18/03/2023)

I have to say, I loved this take on the legendary Verne story. In addition to the great David Niven and the excellent Cantinflas, there are also other interesting actors appearing here - such as Peter Lorre. But it also relies on the journey itself and at the individual stops. The film understood this and portrays the world beautifully. (23/03/2017)