Harvey (1950)
For me, Harvey marks the start of the third phase of James Stewart’s career. After his fast-talking silver screen comedies, after his serious 1940s dramas, there were the relaxed 1950s. He embraced middle age, let himself go grey, and let his charm take over. What could be more charming than a man with a six-foot tall rabbit as his best friend? They talk together, walk together, and care for each other – only nobody else can see or hear Harvey.
Some people dismiss this light-hearted whimsy as silly fluff, but I love it. Yes, Josephine Hull’s performance, as Jimmy’s sister who wants to commit him to an asylum, is over-the-top, but the rest of it isn’t. It reminds us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and stop caring what other people think. If James Stewart sees a six-foot-tall white rabbit, what does it matter that no one else does? He enjoys Harvey’s company, and he has a very happy life. He has a great positive energy to him, and the easygoing smile and wise twinkle in his eye comes across as very genuine. You never for a second think he’s just playing a prank on everyone. He’s secure in himself, he’s secure in Harvey, and he’s merely amused by other people’s doubts.
If you haven’t seen this classic, rent it. You might not think that James Stewart should have been nominated for an Academy Award, but you’ll probably find him very charming. And if you really love it, you can see the 1972 remake where he reprises his role!
Want to watch it? Click here to see it on ok.ru and thanks "Classic Movies Kristine Rose" for posting!
More James Stewart movies here!
Be sure and check out Hot Toasty Rag's review of 1972's Harvey here!
Some people dismiss this light-hearted whimsy as silly fluff, but I love it. Yes, Josephine Hull’s performance, as Jimmy’s sister who wants to commit him to an asylum, is over-the-top, but the rest of it isn’t. It reminds us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and stop caring what other people think. If James Stewart sees a six-foot-tall white rabbit, what does it matter that no one else does? He enjoys Harvey’s company, and he has a very happy life. He has a great positive energy to him, and the easygoing smile and wise twinkle in his eye comes across as very genuine. You never for a second think he’s just playing a prank on everyone. He’s secure in himself, he’s secure in Harvey, and he’s merely amused by other people’s doubts.
If you haven’t seen this classic, rent it. You might not think that James Stewart should have been nominated for an Academy Award, but you’ll probably find him very charming. And if you really love it, you can see the 1972 remake where he reprises his role!
Want to watch it? Click here to see it on ok.ru and thanks "Classic Movies Kristine Rose" for posting!
More James Stewart movies here!
Be sure and check out Hot Toasty Rag's review of 1972's Harvey here!