Most Helpful Customer Reviews
82 of 83 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Gentle and evocative, May 9, 2005
"I Remember Mama" presents a gentle and compassionate portrait of a family of Norwegian immigrants who settle in San Francisco in the early 1900's. The movie is narrated by the family's eldest daughter, now an adult, who has written a memoir about her childhood and her colorful family. Her family includes Mama, Papa, siblings, and some overbearing but well-intentioned aunts and uncle.
Nothing sensational or terribly exciting happens in the lives of these ordinary, working class immigrants. Yet, there is extraordinary poignance in the way in which the family deals with everyday crises such as the fate of an injured pet cat or the dilemma of a mother who is not allowed to see her child in the hospital.
Acclaimed director George Stevens reconstructs such events with an honesty and delicacy that resonates long after the movie ends. And Stevens elicits superb performances from his cast led by Irene Dunne as the title character "Mama". Dunne's performance is beautifully restrained as the humble, selfless matriach who possesses an indomitable spirit and generous heart. The rest of the talented ensemble includes familiar and beloved actors such as Oscar Homolka, Barbara Bel Geddes aka Miss Ellie on the television series "Dallas", and Ellen Corby of "The Waltons" fame.
"I Remember Mama" is the kind of movie that will evoke childhood memories and remind you to appreciate where you came from and how far you've arrived.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
59 of 62 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
TENDER FAMILY MELODRAMA GETS AVERAGE TRANSFER, December 4, 2004
In retrospect George Steven's production of "I Remember Mama" is the high water mark in 1940s family life melodrama. Set at the turn of the last century in San Francisco, the film stars the usually scatterbrained Irene Dunne; on this occasion as the tender yet determined matriarch, Martha Hanson. Together with her husband, Lars (Philip Dorn) and extended family (buttressed by a stellar cast including Barbara Bel Geddes, Cedric Hardwicke, Ellen Corby, Rudy Vallee, Edgar Bergan and Florence Bates) the Norwegian clan weathers some hard knocks and poignant moments with grace and charm. This is one of those elegant little `jabs of pleasure' that American cinema used to dole out en masse during its golden age, but now seems rendered in exceedingly short supply. Based on John Van Druten's hit play (derived from Kathryn Forbes's autobiographical memoir), the film is a veritable feast for the heart and mind; a richly textured and moving experience - not to be missed.
Unfortunately more could have been done to clean up this print before rushing it out to DVD. Warner's transfer is marred by a considerable amount of age related artifacts. Though the gray scale is nicely balanced at times, the image often tends to exhibit an overly soft quality that is more blurry than evocative of mood or style. There is also a considerable amount of film grain present in most scenes. Otherwise, black and contrast levels on the whole tend to be deep and nicely balanced. There are no digital anomalies. The audio is mono and suffers at times from a muffled characteristic. Background hiss is detected in quiescent scenes. A brief introduction by the director's son, George Steven's Jr. is all the extras you get. Bottom line; this film still gets my recommendation for a must have Christmas stocking stuffer. It may not be presented here in its optimal condition but regardless, is sure to warm the heart throughout the holidays and beyond.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
22 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Heartwarming Treasure of a Classic!, July 6, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: I Remember Mama [VHS] (VHS Tape)
"Iss Good! We don't have to go to the bank." Like finding buried treasure ~ this film is a real gem! About the day to day struggles of an immigrant Norwegian family living in San Fransisco at the turn of the century. The innocence and old-world charm of this colorful family is irresistable with Irene Dunne playing the part of Mama. (My favorite classics actress next to Myrna Loy). Narrated by the eldest Daughter recounting stories of her childhood, it's a tale of human frailties, strength, self-sacrifice, loyalty and love. A charming, classic and must see.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
|
