The Loved One

Synopsis

The Loved One, a dark comedy film released in 1965, follows the journey of a young Englishman, Dennis Barlow, as he navigates through the eccentric and absurd world of the American funeral industry. Directed by Tony Richardson and starring Robert Morse, the movie satirizes societal attitudes towards death and the commercialization of grief. As Dennis becomes entangled in a love triangle and faces numerous peculiar characters, including a pet cemetery employee and a mortician, he discovers the surreal and macabre aspects of the American way of dealing with mortality. The film delves into themes of love, loss, and the absurdity of human behavior. With its witty dialogues and dark humor, The Loved One offers a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Cast

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  Robert Morse

  Dennis Barlow

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  Jonathan Winters

  Wilbur Glenworthy / Harry Glenworthy

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  Anjanette Comer

  Aimee Thanatogenos

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  Rod Steiger

  Mr. Joyboy

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  Dana Andrews

  Gen. Buck Brinkman

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  Milton Berle

  Mr. Kenton

Reviews

The Loved One received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While some praised the film for its dark humor and satirical take on the funeral industry, others found its grotesque portrayal of death off-putting. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a rating of 47%, criticizing its uneven pacing and tonal shifts. On the other hand, IMDb rated it 6.9/10, with viewers appreciating the film's clever script and Robert Morse's performance as the naive protagonist. Metacritic described The Loved One as a visually striking and unsettling satire that leaves a lasting impact on its audience. Overall, the film's unconventional storytelling and dark comedic elements divided critics, making it a cult classic with a niche audience.