LIFE WITH FATHER

CAPSULE REVIEW –– I really knew nothing about this film before I watched it except who was in it. I figured with two of classic cinemas better comic actors – Powell and Dunne – that at the very least it would be fun. Well, even I can be wrong. It's not a horrible flick, it's just not a great one either. Powell, who gives the film's strongest and funniest performance, plays the strict father of 4 boys in 1883 New York who is merely trying to enjoy a simple family life. Unfortunately, his wife, played by Dunne, and his children have other plans. His peace and quiet is upset time and again by visiting relatives, a new love, money matters and the repeated attempts by his religious wife to get him baptised. While some of the hijinks are amusing, especially the young lovers played by Lydon and Taylor, the constant barrage of religious banter – about whether Powell's going to heaven or hell – makes it a hard film to chuckle at. Most of Powell's laughs come from pure exasperation, Dunne's from her slightly dimwitted nature as a mother just trying to do her best. They make a very believable married couple and are the best part of this flick. It's interesting to watch Taylor as a teen. She's just so lovely and earnest. If you're in the mood for light, harmless family fun than this film will probably suit you fine. It's just a little too old-fashioned for me.