Pygmalion (DVD, 2000, Criterion Collection)

Though "My Fair Lady" is more popular, this original, non-musical adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's masterpiece is more biting, funnier, and more eloquent. And this Criterion Collection digital transfer is the best yet.

This version was authorized and scripted by Shaw himself, and he claimed that it was closest to his original intentions for the play. Leslie Howard plays Professor Henry Higgins in his finest performance ever. And Wendy Hiller is excellent as Eliza Doolittle. "Pygmalion" was nominated for Best Picture in 1939, a year of great pictures swept away by "Gone with the Wind." Howard (who also appeared in GWTW) was nominated for Best Actor. Hiller, in her screen debut, was nominated for Best Actress. And even with the stiff competition during this year, Shaw managed to walk away with the Oscar for Best Screenplay (along with others who worked with him on the script).

Shaw intended neither the play or the film to be romantic or sentimental. His satire was meant to instruct and improve. This version comes closer to that aim than "My Fair Lady" - which although it is a fine musical, doesn't have the impact or the edge of the original.

Absolutely a joy to watch, with amazing cast performances, this DVD belongs in the library of anyone who claims to love film.