Archie: The Man Who Became Cary Grant

Peter McGinn

Perhaps it is best not to know too much about the real people behind the performers you love. This drama miniseries is well done enough, I suppose, though I must admit I am tired of the well-travelled path screenplays follow in having the story flash forward and backward constantly, as well as the gimmick with the lead character imagining they see their younger selves or loved ones in front of them. There must be simpler but still more powerful ways to make these rather obvious observations or character shadings. It was interesting to have Cary Grant say on his one-person stage show that he had always been described as playing himself like he wasn’t acting, but in reality Archie Leach had created this Cary Grant character and played him on screen and off. This made it tough on his relationships, for his Cary Grant persona could charm nearly any woman, but the controlling, selfish man behind the veneer always disappointed and eventually drove them away. The rest of the cast does a credible job filling in around the vibrant movie star. I have always liked Jason Watkins’ efforts and this role is no exception. He captures his character unobtrusively and shines even while hanging around in the background. The show tells Cary’s story competently enough, but could have used a bit more sizzle.