The Great Man

I fully agree with the reviewers who call this film a neglected or overlooked gem. I was drawn to watch it by the excellent cast - Jose Ferrer, Dean Jagger, Jim Backus, and assorted character actors who do outstanding work. And of course the Wynns, both father and son, in what is probably one of the few - if only - films they made together. Another draw was the rumor that Arthur Godfrey may have been the "great man" on which the story is built. Regardless of that, it's a superb portrayal of the cynicism of the entertainment world. As is made clear, selling product is the be-all and end-all, and a star's good or bad personal qualities are irrelevant. As many reviewers have said, Ed Wynn's brief appearance is a reminder of how great an actor he was. I think his son Keenan acquits himself also, and Dean Jagger is always good. I applaud Jose Ferrer's scriptwriting and direction, but I think his performance is a bit stiff and dry. The only reason I gave 7 stars and not 8 is that I thought the conclusion was a bit abrupt. However it is a very good, well acted story that is well worth watching.