Long before the days of Steve Martin there was Clifton Webb. In 1950 he teamed up with Myrna Loy to create this classic film about the Gilbreth family. The Gilbreth clan consists of 12 children, something that leads to a series of misadventures as they seek to live in harmony under one roof.
Clifton Webb plays their father Frank Gilbreth a famous scientist who has focused his mind on the study of efficiency. This study runs his home as his wife Lillian (Loy) tries to balance out his high standards. Each of their 12 children is in a different stage of youth and has different needs. From his teenaged daughters desire to fit in to the younger boys hope for a dog Mr. gilbreth tries to rule with an iron hand but ends up with a softer touch.
This isn't an award-winning film but it's a classic. Clifton Webb was perfect for his role and the rest of the cast worked together brilliantly. Webb would have three Oscar nominations over his career for works like Laura and Sitting Pretty. The style of the film has a Leave it to Beaver quality which makes it a definnite feel-good film.
The film has a great message and a warm feeling to it. I would watch this film again simply for the enjoyment. I would give it 2.7 out of 5 stars.
Rating: NR
Running Time: 86 minutes
No comments:
Post a Comment