POPEYE (Theatrical Release USA 1980)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.6|5.0 Starsììì

Popeye—high potential—lost its way from its beginning scenes. This is a classic example of not understanding the original intent of a story and being able to replicate the subtle nuances that made the story great. In this case, the essence of Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Bluto was not captured. The fault lies in the written script, the dialogue, and the over-the-top emotions that dominate the film. The portrayal came from a poorly established foundation and not enough film time given to some of the secondary characters (like Wimpy). Because of the more serious tone placed on the Popeye character, Director Robert Altman fails to catch the playfulness, heart, and lovability of Popeye. While casting did a terrific job of choosing people who look like the three main characters, the audience will be left with a terrific desire to see this film remade and the next time, remade rightly.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Popeye and Olive Oyl find Swee’Pea and follow the pattern of their small town lives.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Robert Altman for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producer C.O. Erickson for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Popeye (Robin Williams), Olive Oyl (Shelley Duvall), Poopdeck Pappy (Ray Walston), Wimpy (Paul Dooley), Bluto (Paul L. Smith), Geezil (Richard Libertini), The Taxman (Donald Moffat), Cole Oyl (MacIntyre Dixon), Nana Oyl (Roberta Maxwell), Castor Oyl (Donovan Scott), Rough House (Allan F. Nicholls), Swee’pea (Wesley Ivan Hurt), Ham Gravy (Bill Irwin), Bill Barnacle (Robert Fortier), Harry Hotcash (David McCharen), Cherry (Sharon Kinney), and Oxblood Oxheart (Peter Bray).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Maybe. If one is studying the film for a complete remake, then it is worth watching. If one wants to see a good Popeye movie, wait until it has been remade.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers