Bunny Lake Is Missing (1965)

Bunny Lake Is Missing
Directed by Otto Preminger
Written by John and Penelope Mortimer from a novel by Marryam Modell
1965/UK
Wheel Productions
First viewing/Netflix rental

[box] Doll-maker: This doll had almost been loved to death. You know, love inflicts the most terrible injuries on my small patients.[/box]

Although it was very nice to look at, I could not suspend my disbelief long enough to enjoy this thriller.

Americans Ann Lake (Carol Lynley) and her brother Steven (Keir Dullea) have just arrived in London where he has work.  It is the first day at nursery school for her 4 1/2 year old illegitimate daughter Bunny, named after Ann’s imaginary childhood friend.  Ann leaves the girl at the school and goes to greet the movers.  When she returns, Bunny is missing. Furthermore, no one can actually remember seeing her.

Superintendent Newhouse (Laurence Olivier) of Scotland Yard takes up the search.  Ann and Steven do what they can to assist.  Investigators meet frustration at every turn.  Is Bunny Lake missing?  With Noel Coward as a weirdo neighbor.

The B&W cinematography is stunning and, though Lynley is weak in the lead, the acting is very good in the main.  Yet I was not impressed.  The whole thing seemed forced and builds to an ending that will not withstand 30 seconds of scrutiny.  Maybe I have been spoiled by too much thirties viewing and need to ease my way into the 60’s?