Anthony Edwards, Mary Stuart Masterson and Virginia Madsen star with a cast of luminaries, including Robert Mitchum, Harry Dean Stanton, Anjelica Huston, Tammy Grimes and Lauren Bacall, in this heartwarming and hilarious f... more »able about a man who sets a wealthy community's hair on end literally! When young Yale graduate Theophilus North (Edwards) settles in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1926, he charms the elite with his ability to heal with an unusual energy that flows from his fingertips. But as North gains a reputation as a savior, he simultaneously endures the wrath of the local doctor, who labels him a charlatan. Suddenly this gifted newcomer must defend his honor before his unique talent sparks a backlash that lands him in jail!« less
"A delightful film! Anthony Edwards is supported by a tremendous cast of characters including Robert Mitchum, Mary Stuart Masterson, Anjelica Huston, Lauren Bacall, Harry Dean Stanton, and Virgina Madsen. Based on a novel by Thornton Wilder and directed by Danny Huston, the film, filmed on location in Newport, Rhode Island, captures the charm and innocence of the 1920s. Anthony Edwards carries this film and makes the film, which would otherwise be simply mediocre, come to life. A charming film well worth watching."
You've gotta love this movie!
Bomojaz | South Central PA, USA | 04/04/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Based on Thornton Wilder's novel THEOPHILUS NORTH, this is, in its own quiet way, a magical picture. It's about a young college man who gives off electrical charges from his body (an old parlor trick); he comes to Newport one season early in the 20th century and begins to transform people. There is an exuberance and optimism that rub off on these stuffy summer people, and they begin to come to life in a way they've never experienced before. And, of course, there are those electrical charges, which some residents swear to as having magical healing powers. As reality, this movie would never work, but it has a fairy tale quality about it that transcends believability and allows us to just enjoy the proceedings. Definitely worth a watch."
A Harmless & Fun "Feel-Good" film...
R. Gawlitta | Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA | 08/30/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Just got the DVD, and forgot how wonderfully entertaining this film really is. Danny Huston's directorial debut was met with mixed reaction, but this film never fails to entertain. It's simple, sweet and a bit profound (based on Thornton Wilder) and the attention to 1920's period detail is intact. The most fun thing is the exemplary ensemble cast that Mr. Huston assembled (no doubt with help from father, John, who was co-writer). Anjelica Huston, Mary Stuart Masterson, Tammy Grimes, Virginia Madsen, Harry Dean Stanton, the wonderful Lauren Bacall, and, most notably, the GREAT Robert Mitchum. Holding it all together,in a wonderfully confident fashion, is a young Anthony Edwards in the title role. He is an Everyman, knowing he is better than his lot, talented and confident enough to fulfill his dream. A fine cameo from the great playwright, Christopher Durang, is also a pleasure. After a day of beating your brains out and wondering why life isn't better, watch this film and you'll feel good. Apparently, Mr. North was in all the right places at the right time... Hey! It COULD happen...(?)"
A Great Movie!
R. Gawlitta | 12/05/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"With Anthony Edwerds as Mr. North, Robert Mitchum as James Bosworth, Lauren Bacall as Amilia Crinston and Anjelica Huston as Persis Bosworth-Tennyson you realy can't go rong. A great movie, the only thing that kept it from the fifth star is how Persis ran of with Mr. North almost at first glance. It's basicly about this guy, Mr. North, and what he does with the electricty he stores in his body. It is also about who hates him because of it. With great acting by Robert Mitchum, Lauren Bacall and Anjelica Huston, don't pass this one up. - An Anjelica Huston Fan"
Taste of the 20's
Martha Loeb | in MASSACHUSETTS | 06/07/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What a movie !!!! What a cast !!!! Anthony Edwards, Robert Mithchum, Mary Kay Place, Anjelica Huston, Harry Dean Stanton, Lauren Bacall and so many more..... What a great idea to have a novie that says to kids.....you can try something out once,but it may not work. If it does great but always be on the lookout for things not to work. It was great."