Travels with My Aunt

The 1972 movie, Travels with My Aunt, based on the novel by Graham Greene, is a delightful comedy-drama that brings together an exceptional cast led by Dame Maggie Smith, Alec McCowen, and Louis Gossett Jr. Directed by the venerable George Cukor, who has helmed Hollywood classics like My Fair Lady and The Philadelphia Story, this film bubbles with wit, suspense and an endearing sense of adventure.

Our story revolves around Henry Pulling (Alec McCowen), a staid and reserved retired bank manager, who finds his quiet, orderly life upended when he encounters his eccentric Aunt Augusta (Maggie Smith) at his mother's funeral. Aunt Augusta, proficient in living life with full strides, sweeps Henry into the folds of her colorful past, mysterious present, and unpredictable future. From London to Paris, Istanbul to Paraguay, they go off on a whirlwind, globe-trotting journey that serves to not only awaken the spirit of adventure in Henry but also uncovers some uncomfortable revelations about their family.

Maggie Smith provides a standout performance as Aunt Augusta, blending flamboyant charm with hints of profound melancholy. Always teetering between the edges of frivolity and heartbreak, Smith makes this seemingly outlandish character real, complex, and most importantly, relatable. On the other hand, Alec McCowen's admirable restraint as Henry makes for an excellent foil to Smith’s larger-than-life onscreen persona. The chemistry between them is a treat to watch, filled with a sense of dynamism and poignant reflection.

Louis Gossett Jr. also shines in his role as Wordsworth - Aunt Augusta's lover from Sierra Leone, who, despite having a minimal amount of screen time, leaves an undeniable impact on both the story and the characters. The diverse roster of eccentric characters also includes an Italian anarchist played by Robert Stephens and a spiritual leader "Vishnu" played by Raymond Gérôme.

Travels with My Aunt is as much a commentary on life's unexpected oddities as it is an.