Topper Takes A Trip

Topper Takes A Trip is a delightful 1938 comedy which is a sequel to the popular 1937 film, "Topper." This whimsical humor-filled journey showcases the essence of the comedic shenanigans of the 1930s classic Hollywood. The film primarily stars Constance Bennett, Roland Young, and Billie Burke, who reprise their winning roles from the first film, adding to the charm and mirth of their characters.

The primary focus of the story is the lovable character Cosmo Topper, once again played by the talented Roland Young. Young's portrayal of Topper, an uptight banker who is caught up in paranormal and out of the ordinary occurrences, is genuinely entertaining and endearing. He conscientiously continues to portray Topper as a somewhat unwilling participant in comedic supernatural situations, lending a humorous incredulous tone to his interactions and situations.

Constance Bennett reprises her role as the lively spirit Marion Kirby, dazzling and teasing the audience with her onscreen charm and elegant on-screen demeanor. Her acting skills brilliantly capture the free-spirited and charmingly casual nature of Marion. Even though she's a ghost, she continues to engage in her frivolous extravagances, much to the amusement of the audience.

The film also stars the legendary Billie Burke, remembered for her iconic role as Glinda the Good Witch in "The Wizard of Oz." Burke plays Clara Topper, Cosmo's high-society, social-climbing wife. Her portrayal of the character adds a touch of simplistic humor, as Clara Topper inelegantly deals with her husband's exasperating spiritual adventures.

The plot of Topper Takes A Trip picks up right where the original "Topper" left off, in the sunny climes of the French Riviera. Mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and outright comedy of errors permeate the narrative with an entertaining blend of ghosts, humans, and a mischievous dog tossed into the mix.

Topper's world turns topsy-turvy once again when the mischievous spirit of Marion Kirby makes a reappearance. However, her return comes with fewer troubles than before but with more lighthearted adventures. Despite being a comedy about haunting spirits, the film is far from being about horrors and fearsome nightmares. Instead, it dwells on the comedic misadventures of Topper, with the ghost Marion in tow, setting off another wave of hilarious events.

The comedy relies heavily on the comedic timings and the chemistry between the lead stars, which is on point. Without doubt, the playful banter and teasing interactions set the tone of the film making the audience relish the charm of old-time comedy.

The French Riviera serves as an idyllic backdrop, enhancing the movie's aesthetic appeal, complementing the sprinkling of elegance and sophistication inherent in the characters of Marion and Clara Topper.

While 'Topper Takes A Trip' largely focuses on spectral shenanigans and high-society misadventures, the film also employs timely social commentary and a bit of slapstick comedy characteristic of the 1930s Hollywood. The screenplay, though simple, is well-written and effective in eliciting consistent laughter, keeping the audience engaged to the end.

Additionally, the film boasts impressive special effects, quite advanced for its time. The scenes featuring Marion's ghost are cleverly crafted and executed. They often exhibit situational humor as Marion engages in mischievous activities, causing confusion in the corporeal world where only Topper can see her.

The direction by Norman Z. McLeod is adept and proficient, adding depth and hilarity to the narrative. He adeptly balances the plot pacing and character development ensuring a smooth-flowing storyline. The film's settings, costumes, and were equally well-crafted adding to the overall appeal.

In sum, 'Topper Takes A Trip' is a delightful continuation of the Topper series, serving a generous helping of ghostly fun, infectious laughter, whimsy, and subtle societal humor. The performances of Roland Young, Constance Bennett, and Billie Burke all contribute to its lasting appeal, charm, and humor, delighting its audience with a capricious interpretation of a rather unusual friendship between the living and the dead. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema, ghostly comedy, or simply looking for a light-hearted movie, 'Topper Takes A Trip' is assuredly a film to watch.