Grand National Night

I believe Bob McNaught only directed three films: GRAND NATIONAL NIGHT (aka WICKED WIFE), SEA WIFE, and THE INSPECTOR. The greater the pity, he showed considerable directorial capability in these few efforts.

GRAND NATIONAL NIGHT opens with Nigel Patrick and a number of fellow equestrian riders taking their quadrupeds back to the stables of an affluent-looking mansion, when Patrick's worse half, Moira Lister - the wicked wife of the title - comes speeding in her car, doings Ss all over the road. I thought some horse would see its life shortened by a car but - thankfully - that did not happen in the film, which pleased this animal rights supporter no end.

This B picture benefits from a credible yet twisty screenplay from Dorothy and Campbell Christie, expert B&W cinematography from Jack Asher and, most of all, great acting from Nigel Patrick as the cuckolded hubby, Gibb McLaughlin as the butler who did not do it and remains loyal to his boss, and Michael Hordern as the police investigator puzzling out a possible murder while horses ran during the night of the Grand National.

Intelligent dialogue, the occasional chuckle haul GRAND NATIONAL well above usual British B picture level. 8/10.