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- Feb 8, 1999
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- Real Name
- Robert Harris
Adapted from the novel, Nunnally Johnson's screenplay for Mr. Hobbs at least gives director Henry Koster something with which to work. The early '60s was not a wonderful time for family-based comedies -- possibly a bit too antiseptic at times.
Mr. Hobbs works nicely within the parameters set forth, and remains an entertaining, while not particularly stellar (with all due respect to HTF critic Kevin Koster) production. I would call it second-tier Koster.
I had a shot chat with Mr. Koster yesterday -- he's been off working out of state and has not yet had a chance to view this Blu-ray -- and he gave me an interesting anecdote. Apparently there was to be a sight gag in the film. Director Koster and possibly Mr. Johnson had decided that the tall, lanky, Mr. Stewart would be driving something so small, that he would have to unwind himself from the drivers' seat.
The studio would have not of it, and insisted upon using standard studio fare, as supplied by the manufacturer.
Visually, Mr. Hobbs looks a bit weak, but not disturbingly so. Several sequences take on a slightly greenish cast.
But generally, the fifty-two year-old production looks pleasing on Blu-ray, and is especially nice to see in its full CinemaScope glory.
A subtle request to Twilight Time...
Flight of the Phoenix, please.
Image - 3.5
Audio -5
Recommended.
RAH
