The Importance of being Idle

        For the 1st time, I watched the story about a mild-mannered, pleasant alcoholic James Stewart, whose best friend is a 'pooka' named Harvey - a giant 6-ft 3 and 1/2 inch tall rabbit.  A ‘Pooka’ is a fairy spirit that appears in animal form, always very large.  I loved every single moment of the film.  Directed by Henry Koster and adapted to the screen by Mary Chase, who wrote the Pulitzer Prize Play, is the story of Elwood P. Dowd sister Veta (played by Josephine Hull) trying to commit Elwood (James Stewart) in a mental institution, but comedy ensues, as Elwood and Harvey are the catalysts for mending his family feuds and blossoming a relationship.  James Stewart was a delight to watch.  A very simplistic character, yet always busy enjoying life to the fullest, whether that be in a bar meeting new people.  His character doesn’t have a bad bone in his body and to me ‘Harvey’ is Elwood’s way of escaping reality and all the responsibilities that make people miserable.

“I have a wonderful time, wherever I am, whomever I’m with” – Elwood P. Dow

The way Harvey was never shown was fantastic.  You imagine Harvey is there whenever James Stewart talks to an invisible space, but that’s what’s special about the narrative, it’s about believing in the moment.   The most beautiful scene was when Elwood explains how Harvey has enriched his life, though the people who are listening to the story doubt Harvey's existence, thus doubting Elwood's sanity.  The word of his speech, coupled with the delivery of his performance is so touching and true that the audience will be won over into believing and accepting Harvey is truly real.  Josephine Hull played Veta, Elwood's sister, who won a Best Supporting Actress award for her role and deservedly so.  Her facial expressions, gestures and dialect really enrich the film.  My favourite quote is when Mr. Wilson discovers what a ‘Pooka’ is and states:

“ A mischievous creature, very found of rum-pots, crack-pots and how are you Mr. Wilson?”

         His tone and expressions are so funny and good-natured is really a charming scene to watch.  The film is really heart-warming and sentimental, but it is a really enjoyable comedy that fills you with happiness.

Cheers