Popeye

Me Loves Popeye

I enjoy watching this film when it comes my way. Robin Williams probably won't be remembered for his role as Popeye yet he turns in a fine performance. Bringing to life an animated character, he gives us a terrific performance in the title role. He is completely convincing even with his big realistic brawny forearms, trademark of his character. Mr. Williams ironically takes a subtle approach on his characterization of Popeye, relying less on his all out persona and focusing instead in the parental sweetness of his character when dealing with his new found son Sweet Pea and in relating romantically with Olive Oyl. Which leads us to talk about Shelley Duvall as Olive Oyl. Basically she was born to have this role. Duvall brings the perfect blend of goofiness and even dignity to the role. When on screen is very hard not to take away your eyes from her. One of the highlights of the film is when she sings all by herself on a moonlit pier the silly ditty “He Needs Me” and the movie soars with a whimsical understated charm that is both memorable and wonderful. The movie also accomplishes wonderful nutty moments and does an amazing job of capturing the spirit of a live action cartoon without thankfully the need of any CGI effects. Much credit should be given to the work of Wolf Kroeger, the production designer, who has come up with a spectacular physical universe. His Sweethaven set, built on location on the island of Malta consists of a detailed and atmospheric fishing village where streets run at crazy angles and all the buildings lean together dangerously on the coast side. The music score by the late Harry Nilsson is weaved in into the plot without appearing forced and although there are no obvious show stoppers there are a few clever melodies, most memorable the already mentioned “He Needs Me”, “Food, Food, Food” and the opening anthem “Sweet haven” in which a gloomy sarcasm must be noted. Popeye is a mix bag of wacky elements that suffers from some uneven pacing but at times it is gloriously weird, visually spectacular and brimming with intelligence. I recommend it to those who enjoy unpredictable and unusual entertainment that’s not neatly package in a square box. To me that kind of packaging sometimes have the best surprises.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

this may be my alltime second favorite movie

i grew up watching popeye cartoons on tv. this movie matches better than i would have believed possible the flavor of the cartoon, only better. i love the set and costumes and color of the movie, i love the songs and the singing (i can't imagine olive oyl sounding any different) and the mood of the film. the behavior and speech and mood of the characters couldn't be more like what i imagined as a kid watching the cartoons, only better.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

''Popeye'' Is Tragically Under-rated

This film represents a clear and well-executed vision. It interprets the original comic strip for a subsequent generation, extending the ''eat your spinach'' theme toward a deeper exploration of family relationships. Critics who disliked this film are the ones who judge a book by its cover. You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll wonder how a film this beautiful gets lost in the shuffle. Kids will enjoy it, too.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Superb Acting

An outstanding movie with entertainment for the entire family. Robin Williams and Shelly Duvall are at their best in this film. Some of the best acting seen in years. Wish they still made movies that were TRUE ENTERTAINMENT and not just a lot of hype, violence and sex!

...i have this on beta....heehee

it's pretty funny. if you like baz luhrman movies (moulin rouge, romeo&juliet and strictly ballroom) or any other strangely-funny movie with music, then you'll probably like this. i thought it was entertaining. but what am i?

popeye

I loved this movie, everytime I see it I can see something different in it...I want to know when Paramont is going to zip this movie to dts and put it on dvd?

classic movie of all times!

This is one of many movies that takes me back to my early teenage years. They could not have picked a better character to play Popeye than Robin Williams. One question though... When is the DVD coming out????

Great Movie

This is Robin Williams' greatest role. (No kidding.) Popeye is a character who mutters asides all the time. I'm sure Williams adlibed the whole thing. The movie accurately captures Popeye as a cartoon character being brought to life. Movie contains such unforgettable concepts as an ''exact change'' tax collector.

HILARIOUS!

This flick is HILARIOUS!!! You can't take it seriously (but then, who would take Popeye seriously?) I think this is way too underrated.

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