Turnabout

Synopsis

Turnabout is a 1940 comedy film directed by Hal Roach and starring Adolphe Menjou. The story revolves around a married couple, Jerry and Sally, who are constantly at odds with each other. Their lives take an unexpected turn when a mystical Indian idol grants their wish to swap bodies. Through this fantastical transformation, they experience firsthand the intricacies and challenges faced by the other gender, leading to humorous situations and a deeper understanding of each other. The film offers a lighthearted exploration of gender roles and marital dynamics set against the backdrop of 1940s society.

Cast

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  Adolphe Menjou

  Phil Manning

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  Carole Landis

  Sally Willows

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  John Hubbard

  Tim Willows

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  William Gargan

  Joel Clare

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  Verree Teasdale

  Laura Bannister

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  Mary Astor

  Marion Manning

Reviews

Critically, Turnabout has received mixed to negative reviews over the decades. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a low rating of 20%, indicating generally unfavorable opinions among critics and audiences alike. Many contemporary reviewers have described the film as a dated and gimmicky comedy that struggles to maintain consistent humor. For instance, some critics have pointed out that the body-swap premise, while intriguing, was not fully exploited for comedic or insightful effect, often resulting in slapstick rather than clever wit. On IMDb, the film has a score of 6.1/10 based on user ratings, reflecting an average reception. Viewers appreciate the performances of Adolphe Menjou and the supporting cast but often note that the pacing and storyline feel slow and occasionally predictable. Despite its shortcomings, some reviewers acknowledge Turnabout's charm as a product of its era and its attempt to tackle social commentary through comedy. Overall, the film is seen more as a nostalgic curiosity rather than a timeless classic.