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6.1/10
Senior Film Conservator
A definitive 6.1/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Second Hand Kisses remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Look, if you have a soft spot for grainy, black-and-white misunderstandings and actors who move like they're in a silent film even when they're talking, sure. Watch it. If you need tight pacing or a story that doesn't feel like it was written on a napkin, you will probably be annoyed within ten minutes.
It’s the kind of movie that feels like it was filmed in a backyard on a Saturday afternoon. And I mean that in a mostly good way. ☕
The whole premise is built on this bizarre lack of communication. Louise and Jimmy are getting married, but they’re both hiding these kids from each other. It’s supposed to be funny, I guess? It mostly just made me want to tell them to grow up.
James Finlayson is in this, and honestly, the man could just stand there and look confused and I’d be happy. He has that classic exasperated face that makes everything feel slightly more chaotic than it actually is. He is doing a lot of heavy lifting here.
There’s a scene near the orphanage gates that goes on way too long. It’s like they forgot to yell 'cut' so they just kept walking in circles. It’s weirdly hypnotic.
It feels a lot less polished than something like A Champion Loser, but it has that same frantic energy. Maybe it’s just the era. Everything feels like it's about to fall apart at any second.
The movie gets way more interesting once the wedding ceremony starts falling apart. It’s not exactly high art, but it’s sincere in its silliness. Sometimes that’s enough, right?
It’s not as sharp as Torchy Turns Cupid, but it’s got enough heart to keep you from turning it off. Just don't think too hard about the orphanage logistics. Seriously, don't.
Anyway, it’s a short watch. Good for a rainy afternoon when you don't want to engage your brain too hard. 🎬