MOVIE REVIEW
Houseboat (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Comedy, Romance, Drama
Year Released: 1958, 2025 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 50m
Director(s): Melville Shavelson
Writer(s): Melville Shavelson, Jack Rose, Betsy Drake
Cast: Cary Grant, Sophia Loren, Martha Hyer, Harry Guardino, Murray Hamilton, Eduardo Ciannelli, John Litel, Werner Klemperer
Where To Watch: available now, order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Hollywood's golden age often relied on star power to drive its most memorable films, and this romantic comedy is no exception. The pairing of Cary Grant and Sophia Loren alone is enough to draw in audiences, promising a blend of charm, wit, and emotion. The film offers a light-hearted exploration of family, love, and self-discovery, all wrapped in the vibrant aesthetics of 1950s cinema.

The story revolves around Tom Winters (Cary Grant), a recently widowed father thrust into a role he is ill-prepared for. Balancing his high-pressure job and the sudden responsibility of raising three children proves chaotic, leaving Tom desperate for help. Enter Cinzia Zaccardi (Sophia Loren), whose arrival reshapes the family dynamics. Despite lacking traditional domestic skills, Cinzia’s charisma and personality anchor the group together. Their decision to move onto a houseboat introduces a unique backdrop that mirrors their attempts to rebuild fractured bonds.

This movie relies heavily on the charisma of its stars. Grant delivers a polished performance that aligns well with his reputation for suave, comedic roles. However, while his portrayal carries charm, it often lacks the vulnerability needed to sell Tom’s transformation entirely. Loren, on the other hand, brings undeniable magnetism to her role, blending defiance and warmth. Her character’s journey adds depth to her performance. Yet, their on-screen chemistry feels uneven, perhaps hindered by off-camera tensions shaping their real-world lives.

The film’s script underwent significant changes during production, shifting away from its original concept. While this adaptation retains some moments, it often feels confined by the reliance on predictable tropes. The storyline’s dependence on the "nanny transforms the family" formula provides a comforting familiarity but limits opportunities for invention.

One of the film's highlights is its supporting cast, particularly the performances by the child actors. As Tom’s eldest son, Paul Petersen delivers a standout portrayal of a young boy grappling with grief and the awkwardness of adolescence. These interactions between Tom and his children provide some of the most heartfelt moments, even if the overall portrayal of their family life leans toward idealized simplicity.

The houseboat is pivotal, serving as a literal and symbolic foundation for the family’s transformation. As they work together to renovate their unconventional home, the effort mirrors their journey to mend broken relationships and establish new connections. Music also plays an integral role in shaping the movie’s tone, with standout moments like the Academy Award-nominated “Almost in Your Arms” performed by Sam Cooke. The song captures the romantic undercurrents of the story, while the lively dance sequence set to “That’s Amore” injects a playful energy.

Despite its flaws, the film retains an undeniable charm that makes it enjoyable. Shavelson’s direction ensures the tone remains light and accessible, even as the story roams. The juxtaposition of high-society opulence with the simpler life aboard the houseboat creates a recurring theme of finding balance and prioritizing personal connections over material wealth. Though the film briefly touches on these ideas, it ultimately opts for a neatly packaged resolution, keeping Hollywood’s preference for satisfying endings.

This movie offers a nostalgic showcase of their star power for Grant and Loren fans, even if it doesn’t represent their best work. The production reflects the strengths and limitations of its era, delivering a mix of charismatic performances and a narrative that feels both familiar and comforting.

Ultimately, this will appeal to those searching for light-hearted entertainment. Its charm lies in its star-studded cast and the gentle humor of its premise, making it a pleasant, if unremarkable, addition to the era’s legacy. Whether revisiting a classic or discovering it for the first time, viewers will likely find something to enjoy in its warmth and simplicity.

Product Extras:
Brand New HD Master by Paramount Pictures – From a 6K Scan of the 35mm VistaVision Original Camera Negative
NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historian/Writer Julie Kirgo and Writer/Filmmaker Peter Hankoff
Two Theatrical Trailers
Dual-Layered BD50 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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