Magic Town

Starring: James Stewart, Jane Wyman, Ned Sparks
Directed by: William A. Wellman
Rating: Not rated
Genre: Comedy
1947

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A pollster (James Stewart) discovers the town of Grandview, which is statistically identical to the entire United States. He goes there to survey the town and make millions, but the sudden spotlight threatens to change the town for the worse.

Review:

Tim: Perhaps the worst James Stewart movie I have ever seen (to be fair, I haven't seen them all, yet). I really like the concept of statisticians and surveyors finding the perfect microcosm of the United States in a "magic" town. However, from this solid framework, we are given a weak feel-good movie that never actually achieves this goal. On paper, this looks like the perfect vehicle for Stewart. However, he is held down by the poor script and doesn't really get the opportunity to showcase his charming likeability. He makes very little impact.

Jane Wyman isn't the best leading lady here. She certainly has her moments, but leaves you wanting so much more. The rest of the cast was meant to be zany and interesting (a lot like You Can't Take it With You, but comes across as forced, ridiculous, and incredibly annoying. I can see so clearly the intention and how badly it failed.

The film is also surprisingly predictable. Even though these types of films are often pretty straightforward, it is surprising how transparent and obvious this movie turns out to be. There are also multiple attempts to make the film seem more important and powerful, but nearly every one crumbles under the ridiculous quality the whole movie possesses.

There are so many terrific feel-good Stewart movies out there. It almost feels like the guy can simply do no wrong in this subgenre. While the mess that is Magic Town is not Stewart's fault at all, it serves as a reminder that the man is human. In a sad way, it is interesting to watch his terrific skills trying not to drown in this sea of problems.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 5.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: You Can't Take it With You, It's a Wonderful Life, Harvey