It seems to me that Mogambo is one of those films you either love to distraction or hate with a passion. For me, it’s that latter, I’m afraid. Which is ODD and downright WEIRD because Clark Gable, Ava Gardner, and Grace Kelly are three of my favorites. Love them like crazy.
And yet… I’d rather gargle live crickets than watch this film.
Due to my love of the three stars, I’ve given it several chances to win me over. I have watched it three times over the years, with the following thoughts:
- First Viewing: Ava is absolutely wonderful, Grace is boring in this role, and Clark is as miscast as miscasts get. Why did Grace sign on for this?
- Second Viewing: Ava is absolutely, positively wonderful, Grace is absolutely, positively boring in this role, and Clark is as absolutely, positively miscast as miscasts get. Why did Grace sign on for this?
- Third Viewing: Ava. She’s the only good thing about this turkey of a movie. Why did Grace sign on for this?
And yet… I see so many people name it as a favorite movie?! I don’t get it, but that certainly doesn’t mean it can’t be “got.” The worst thing about it is that I collect ALL Ava Gardner films, as well as ALL Grace Kelly films which means I’m actually going to have to buy this thing one day. Horrors! I’ve already decided it’s going on the Ava Gardner collection shelf.
After all, she’s the only good thing about it. Why did Grace sign on for this?
Find Mogambo on Amazon, if you’re also a collector or one of those who happens to like it.