Review of Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) by Barry N — 01 Jul 2011
The idea of a man dressing up as a woman is constantly used as a comic device. The plotline is so old that it's been used in several television shows and has been the central focus in several films, this one included. Although the film doesn't really add anything new, it's still a fairly good expansion on the plot.
Robin Williams is very good here, flawlessly going back and forth between both characters. He totally gets invested in both characters. When he's dressed as Mrs. Doubtfire, he's not acting as a guy pretending to be a woman, he's actually playing a British nanny. While I'm on that note, the makeup in this film is some of the finest I've ever seen. If I hadn't been told that was Robin Williams, or even a guy, I wouldn't be able to figure it out, which makes the premise plausible.
The film actually pulls some heartstrings in some scenes. I loved the scenes where the Robin Williams character interacts with his children, and the scenes at the trial are also heartwarming. We want to root for Robin Williams, but when you look at it from the judge's point of view, we understand his reasoning. That's the key to this film. It's very realistic at times with both character motivation and reactions.
But the film does falter. Sometimes the film seems to stop as Robin Williams does some "stand-up" comedy. Some of it's funny but it just stops the movie. I also felt the pacing of the film was off. It just doesn't flow as well as it ought to. It also doesn't offer any memorable or interesting characters or moments. It doesn't really try to break the mold for comedies or cross-dressing films.
Those moments that don't work though, are overshined by the moments that are good. It has a great realistic ending that also wasn't predictable like other comedies I've seen, so I give the movie kudos there. I just wish more was done with the film. Still, if you haven't seen it, I definitely recommend a good watch. This is a funny comedy with some heartwarming moments.
7.7/10.
This review of Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) was written by Barry N on 01 Jul 2011.
Mrs. Doubtfire has generally received positive reviews.
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