For the most part very amusing (though the main musical theme is veeeeery irritating, and Charles Laughton tends to overdo the drunken scenes a tad). Brenda De Banzie is terrific, and the interactions between her and John Mills were rather charming and sweet.

David Lean never disappoints (well, I'm not crazy about Summertime, but then again I owe it a fresh viewing). One of his few comedies, Hobson's Choice is a delightful, breezy romp that both lampoons and celebrates several facts of the British spirit. The simple plot is propped up by three wonderful characters, expertly played by Charles Laughton, Brenda De Banzie and John Mills. Laughton's slapsticky inebriation is a little much for me, but it pays off with a terrific d.t.'s scene.

"...makes everything old seem brilliantly and often hilariously new."

Laughton hams his way through the film rather annoyingly, but it's still a very neat little film and fun to watch. Though unquestionably dated.

Always a pleasure to watch Laughton and his antics, although he may have gone overboard a bit on the inebriated scenes.

Charles Laughton is hilarious as the father on a power trip, backed into a corner by his equally assertive daughter. The powerplays between him and Brenda De Banzie are extremely amusing. John Mills is also great as a very sympathetic pushover. Lean's direction is crisp and even-handed without becoming showy, and it's shot in richly textured black & white. Just an all-around pleasant movie.

I like the role-reversals in its treatment of the sexes, it's just a bit silly and lacking in charm. The exception is more of that wonderful photography expected of Lean.

Hobson's Choice is one of those rarest of movies in which script, directing and acting compete neck and neck for supremacy. A fantastic movie, hilariously funny and thoroughly touching.