Bedtime for Bonzo (1951)
“The funniest new idea on film since "FRANCIS!"”
College prof Peter Boyd tries to salvage his professional and personal reputation by using a lab chimp to prove that environment trumps heredity in behavioral development.
The film establishes its central universe, introducing the protagonists into an escalating conflict. Directed by Frederick de Cordova, this opening movement establishes high visual and thematic stakes that set the narrative journey into motion.
The protagonists navigate escalating complications, ethical dilemmas, and formidable challenges. Starring Ronald Reagan, Diana Lynn, Walter Slezak, the middle act intensifies dramatic momentum toward an inevitable turning point.
The dramatic arcs converge in a decisive climax, resolving interpersonal conflicts and delivering the auteur’s resonant thematic conclusion.
Ronald Reagan
as Professor Peter Boyd
Diana Lynn
as Jane
Walter Slezak
as Professor Hans Neumann
Lucille Barkley
as Valerie Tillinghast
Jesse White
as Babcock
Herbert Heyes
as Dean Tillinghast
Herb Vigran
as Lt. Daggett
Harry Tyler
as KnucksyEdward Clark
as Fosdick (as Ed Clark)
Edward Gargan
as Policeman (as Ed Gargan)
Joel Friedkin
as Mr. De WittBrad Browne
as Chief of PoliceCinematographic negative, aspect ratios & laboratory mastering sheet
| Aspect Ratios | 2.39:1 |
|---|---|
| Camera Systems | Arri Alexa LF / Panavision Millennium DXL2 |
| Negative Format | 35mm / 65mm / Digital Master |
| Printed Film Format | 70mm / DCP Master |
| Sound Mix Formats | Dolby AtmosDTS:X5.1 Surround |
| Laboratory / VFX | Technicolor / Double Negative (DNEG) |
| Color Processing | Color (Rec.709 / DCI-P3 Mastering) |
| Official Runtime | 83 min |
Pure cinematic metadata encyclopedia with zero hosted video. Official verified distribution channels:
This title may currently be in theatrical window, physical media release, or restricted by regional licenses. Switch to another territory:
Weighted consensus from 100K+ verified global cinephile ratings
The pipe organ composition from Hans Zimmer at the edge of Gargantua is monumental. Nolan masterfully balances the vast coldness of relativistic astrophysics with the intimate, multidimensional bond of family. A transcendent achievement of cinema.
"Do not go gentle into that good night, Rage, rage against the dying of the light." Michael Caine reciting Dylan Thomas resonates throughout the entire odyssey. Pure cinematic grandeur.
