With effective characterization, memorable scenes, and fine direction, "Once Upon a Time" moves swiftly along with an abundance of charm. Grant is really fantastic in this light sentimental classic. And in the end, I was able to take it for the fairy tale fluff it was and enjoy it.

Grant plays a struggling theater producer who tries to revive his career with a child's pet, a caterpillar who dances whenever the song "Yes Sir That's My Baby" is played. It has a touch of farce to it, but none of the energy or snappy dialogue needed to make it come alive. Instead it's just a series of scenes of Grant desperately trying to convince people that this dinky rhythmic critter is a surefire superstar all leading up to a pat lesson about a child's trust. It's daffy and dopey and dull.