Ever-lovable Walter Brennan pulls double duty here, playing two of the key roles in this live-action Disney adaptation of a book by Upton Sinclair. His initial role is that of D.J. Mulroney, a millionaire who takes his grandkids (played by Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber of "Mary Poppins" fame) for a picnic in the forest. They make the acquaintance of likeable gnome Jasper (Tom Lowell) and his excitable grandfather Knobby (Brennan again). These two are concerned that they might be the last of their kind, so the humans and gnomes set off on a road trip. In the meantime, Mulroney's underling Ralph (the great comic character actor Richard Deacon) assumes that his boss has lost his mind when he brings up the gnomes. And the little people get targeted by an antagonist (Sean McClory) who runs a freakshow.
Directed with gusto by Robert Stevenson, "The Gnome-Mobile" is pretty much good, goofy fun, complete with the standard slapstick chase, and a frantic finale where a dozen or so sexy female gnomes compete for Jaspers' love. It's reasonably charming stuff, and isn't overstuffed with musical numbers. There's one song, and one variation on it. This being Disney, it never gets particularly seedy (not much is really done with the McClory role), and it certainly does deliver some chuckles. Even if adults aren't won over by it, it will likely be endearing to younger family members.
Brennan is a joy, especially as Knobby; he's downright hilarious in that role. The rest of the cast is similarly engaging; the kids are appealing (Garber definitely avoids being overly "cute" in his portrayal), and your own kids will enjoy watching the misfortunes of Ralph and Quaxton.
The special effects are a highlight, whether it's the little people interacting with the regular folks, or it's the talking animals (blue jays, a racoon, an owl) at the outset that are sure to delight your children.
While this is clearly not one of Disney's more popular fantasies, it's worth seeking out for curious viewers.
Six out of 10.
Directed with gusto by Robert Stevenson, "The Gnome-Mobile" is pretty much good, goofy fun, complete with the standard slapstick chase, and a frantic finale where a dozen or so sexy female gnomes compete for Jaspers' love. It's reasonably charming stuff, and isn't overstuffed with musical numbers. There's one song, and one variation on it. This being Disney, it never gets particularly seedy (not much is really done with the McClory role), and it certainly does deliver some chuckles. Even if adults aren't won over by it, it will likely be endearing to younger family members.
Brennan is a joy, especially as Knobby; he's downright hilarious in that role. The rest of the cast is similarly engaging; the kids are appealing (Garber definitely avoids being overly "cute" in his portrayal), and your own kids will enjoy watching the misfortunes of Ralph and Quaxton.
The special effects are a highlight, whether it's the little people interacting with the regular folks, or it's the talking animals (blue jays, a racoon, an owl) at the outset that are sure to delight your children.
While this is clearly not one of Disney's more popular fantasies, it's worth seeking out for curious viewers.
Six out of 10.