Why bother?

jlacerra

Why did they remake this picture?  It was a pleasant enough TV movie if there was not a really excellent original to which it pales in comparison.

Jeff Daniels, usually a favorite of mine, is not cut out for this type of comedy.  He is neither funny or sympathetic as Elliot.  Patricia Heaton is OK, but there is virtually no chemistry between her and Daniels.  The daughter is too cute and wise.

Oddly, a high point in this picture is a cameo by director Richard Benjamin. This production makes one want to go back into the archives and retrieve the Dreyfuss/Mason version to REALLY see the show.

score 5/10

jlacerra 18 January 2004

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw0931172/