Plot: What’s it about?
Justin Playfair (George C. Scott) is a retired judge who has become a recluse since his wife Lucy passed away. He has no trouble on his own though, he has enough money to last him, and he seems like a nice fellow. But he does one small quirk, that makes him stand out from the crowd. Playfair believes he is the legendary snoop, Sherlock Holmes himself. While this trait doesn’t pose a real threat to anyone, Playfair’s brother has him placed in a mental hospital, mainly to access some of the judge’s cash, to free him from a blackmailer’s grasp. Inside the hospital he meets Dr. Mildred Watson (Joanne Woodward), who is drawn to Playfair’s case right away. She feels the best way to study his case is to follow him, allow him to pursue his latest venture, and track down his nemesis, Dr. Moriarty. Along the way they encounter clues and even danger, both of which Playfair is more than ready to decipher and handle. As the trek continues, Playfair begins to accept Watson as his assistant, and the two delve further down the path of clues and mistakes that Moriarty seems to be leaving behind him.
You have to love this concept, an old codger who thinks he is Sherlock Holmes meets someone named Watson, who becomes his assistant, and they head off to track down his nemesis. I mean, that alone is enough to at least make me check out the movie. And trust me, that is just the surface of how cool this flick is. The writing is excellent, and provides a literate and humorous experience. This may be about a senile old man, but this one of the most literate senile old men I’ve ever seen. It also shows some terrific character depth, as we explore the leads, and discover there is much more there than we first thought. The movie never rests on the premise alone, it always finds a way to branch out and expand on that idea, which keeps the flow moving and the movie fresh. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to see Sherlock Holmes in a more modern setting, then this is your chance. I recommend this movie very highly, especially those looking for witty dialogue and characters. A rental is a good idea for skeptics and first timers, but fans need to take the plunge and buy this disc, it is excellent.
This movie was directed by Anthony Harvey, who is better known for his work as an editor, on such films as Dr. Strangelove, The Millionairess, and Stanley Kubrick’s version of Lolita. But he is no slouch in the director’s chair, as he proves here by using some excellent framing and light work. The main character in this film is played by master actor George C. Scott, who is best known for Oscar winning portrayal of Patton. Scott shows some great range here, being both insane and ingenious at the same time. He makes Playfair seem just crazy enough to believe he’s Sherlock Homes, but also smart enough to really be Sherlock Holmes. Joanne Woodward (The Three Faces of Eve, The Stripper) and Jack Gilford (Cocoon, Catch-22) also give excellent turns in this film. The supporting cast includes Lester Rawlins (Lovesick), Oliver Clark (Doctor Detroit, Mystery Men), Jane Hoffman (*batteries not included, Deconstructing Harry), and Ron Weyand (Child’s Play, Lonesome Dove). Two other noteworthy actors are Grandpa Munster himself, Al Lewis, and Rue McClanahan, sex symbol of The Golden Girls.
Video: How does it look?
They Might Be Giants is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. The visual style of this film is dependent on darkness, so I was concerned the transfer might falter in that region. But I was pleased to see every shadow defined and all visible detail intact. The colors are subdued intentionally, so don’t stress over the slightly muted colors. There is some grain present, but given the age of this print, it’s acceptable and minimal. I also noticed some minor compression flaws, but nothing too bad.
Audio: How does it sound?
The audio is presented via the original mono track, which is good news and bad news. The bad news is, the track will lack the power and atmosphere of a full surround track. However, the good news is that the audio comes across well, with no separation issues or volume inconsistencies. The music sounds good, as does the dialogue, which is sharp and clear.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc contains extensive talent files, the theatrical trailer, an eight minute featurette titled “Madness…It’s Beautiful,” and a running commentary featuring director Anthony Harvey and film archivist Robert A. Harris. While I am glad to see this commentary included, it is plagued with long pauses, and contains little inside information on the movie. Still, I am happy to see Anchor Bay putting these commentaries on their releases.
