Customer Reviews

McHale's Navy (1997)

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(3)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

Not having seen any of the original McHale's Navy episodes, I can't really compare this film to the television classic - but it doesn't take a genius to figure out that the movie is undoubtedly of lower comedic quality than the original series. Judging the film solely on its own merits, it's really not that bad. It's certainly no showcase for sophisticated humor, but it is generally pretty funny throughout. Surely, I'm not the only guy who finds Tom Arnold pretty funny (as long as he's not doing stand-up). The other guys are pretty much hit and miss, though, as they're really just stereotypes. David Alan Grier has his moments as the slow ensign dreaming of lieutenant's stripes, but we've seen the same kind of character act the same way in many a movie already. Originality is not a word you're going to hear in the same sentence as McHale's Navy, I'm afraid.

McHale (Arnold) is a former Navy man who peddles his wares on San Moreno and surrounding Caribbean islands, with many a customer and buddy at the navy base. It's an amazingly undisciplined place, with the guys really living the life of Riley - until, that is, their new CO, Captain Wallace B. Binghamton (Dean Stockwell), best known as the man who sank the Love Boat, arrives. While Binghamton is trying to impart a sense of order at the base, Major Vladikov (Tim Curry), constantly referred to as the second-ranked terrorist in the world, is setting up shop on nearby San Moreno island. To Binghamton's chagrin, the brass in Washington (represented by Cobra, played by none other than Ernest Borgnine) recruits McHale back into active duty in order to find out what Vladikov is up to and then to stop him. Assorted hijinx then ensue as McHale gets his old team back together for one more mission.

The cast is above average for this type of film. Alongside Tim Curry, Ernest Borgnine, and David Alan Grier, you also have the likes of Debra Messing and Bruce Campbell. Unfortunately, none of them are called upon to do all that much with their characters. The film never tries to be anything more than a dumb comedy; even the central plot seems to shrink in upon itself and take a different turn as the end nears. The rather shallow nature of the script plus the negative reaction of many a fan of the original series does much to explain why the movie flopped at the box office. As mindless entertainment, though, you could do much worse than a short tour of duty in McHale's Navy.

I enjoyed this movie immensley, I almost didn't watch it because I thought it wouldn't be that great due to the others reviews, but I really like it and plan on buying it VERY soon!
The one thing I don't like about it is in the beginning theres at least 7 references to sex, and after that about 2 more in the middle of the movie. BUT, other than that, the movie rocks.
I don't know why no one finds this movie funny, maybe it's me, I usually go for those nutty-don't make that much sense-comedy movies.
Tom Arnold was great playing McHale, the other actors did good too but I have to say Tim Curry as Vladikov (The second best terrorist in the world *rolls eyes*) really made the movie, he's so funny and brought a lot more greatness to the movie than the others did. I loved his eastern european accent, kinda sexy ;-) (of course his voice is sexy all together.)

*Ahem* Anyway, if you're anything like me, you'll like this movie. But in case you're not, rent it first. Just in case.

I bought this DVD because I finished the entire McHale's Navy TV episode series on DVD and wanted more. What I got by buying this DVD was scammed -- it bears little, if any, resemblence to the real McHale's Navy either in plot or, most importantly, in overall film quality. The only -- yes, only -- redeeming value this DVD has is that there are a few decent scenes with Ernest Borgnine. Everything else is in it's corny, weak-minded, far-fetched, light-years-from-reality plot is played by two-bit grade B actors. If you really like McHale's Navy, avoid this DVD like the plague. No wonder it flopped at the box office and is now no longer being produced by the studio.

For fans of Tim Curry,Tom Arnold or Bruce Campbell you will be happy with the loosely based movie on the 1960's sitcom. This a video that can be watched once in a while!If you really want to see it(and not buy it) check out your local library,blockbuster or any other video rental store? Also why is this not on DVD! Where's the soundtrack! I liked the songs but where can I find the soundtrtack! Also in this movie both Tim Curry and Tom Arnold have goatees(until Arnold rejoins the Navy).The only violence is a few explosions and some swearing! The orginal McHale(Ernest Borgnine) also appears as Pentagon brass visiting the area!Look for the special relationship between Tom Arnold and Ernest Borgine at the end of the movie! I wont give it away! So run down to your local library,blockbister or other video store before buying this movie! It's also very child friendly so the whole family can watch it! Please Universal can you put this movie on DVD in the near future?

If you are a fan of the old series this movie isn't worth your time and effort.

If you don't mind an ok B movie with a few funny moments from a cast much better than the material it is given (unfortunately the cast manages to sink to its level) then you won't mind it.

I really can't recommend you spend money on this one. Wait for the actual series to make it to DVD (what's keeping it?)

I like this movie, it's about as silly as any Pink Panther film. It's cheesy, but that's what I like about this film. Really has nothing to do with the original series. Maybe pair this with Down Periscope, and you've got something.

Good for a few laughs if you can get past the obvious and numerous technical goofs (like the villian talking into the wrong side of the microphone!). The only real saving grace is the comedic talent of the cast, but Tim Conway they are not!

In my opinion, this movie is more than worth having in my extensive collection. However, I cannot compare it to the original TV series though, since I have never seen it. It aired a little before my time. I searched for this movie many times before finding it on Amazon because copies of it are no longer produced. I heard this movie was pretty much a bomb, both at the box office and DVD sales. But I sure like it though, I think its a terrific and light-hearted movie. If only the navy were so much fun, everyone would gladly serve. Tom Arnold is his usual hilarious self in this, while Dean Stockwell plays a bumbling not-too-bright overly ambitious officer. Certainly a far different role than he acted on the TV series JAG, as the Secnev. Overall, a very cute movie great for many laughs.

I've been looking all over for this movie asnd finally found it on Amazon.com. I remember watching this when it fist came out, I would highly recommend it to any movie buff.

Its a fun movie, good for the whole family. The characters are over the top, and the story is funny. Its a great "tribute" to the original series. I very highly recommend it.