I was curious about this film for quite awhile. What a disappointment. Jason Robards was a great actor, but there's only so much sympathy even he could create for such an irresponsible bum. The idea that such a soul is above working, and encourages others not to work, is one of those "don't know whether to laugh or cry" concepts. I guess I like my movies to have a touch more realism. In a more realistic film, losing the kid would be the least of this guy's worries. He would be physically assaulted on a daily basis and probably institutionalized. So why did I give it a 6/10? When you have probably the wordiest script in film history for a 2 hour film, there have to be SOME good lines. And I'm such a lover of old New York that I kept watching for the scenery.
A special mention must be made of Gene Saks as the TV clown. Even allowing for the nature of the character, this is one of the most abrasive, scenery-chewing performances I have ever seen.
A special mention must be made of Gene Saks as the TV clown. Even allowing for the nature of the character, this is one of the most abrasive, scenery-chewing performances I have ever seen.