This film's excellent cast brings interest to a story of otherwise routine family events. Almost all of the performers are nicely matched with their characters, especially William Powell and Irene Dunne as the parents. The period piece setting works well most of the time, and although it is occasionally stagy, "Life With Father" is a pleasant movie to watch, with many good comic moments.
Powell is perfect as Mr. Day. The character in himself is not especially distinctive - an autocratic, mildly eccentric, often oblivious patriarch - but Powell gives a fine performance that makes him a worthy center of attention. Dunne is, if anything, even better as the charming and patient Mrs. Day, who is much more clever than she appears, and who in most respects actually runs the household. The rest of the cast includes some fine supporting actors like Zasu Pitts and Edmund Gwenn, with Jimmy Lydon adding a good performance as Clarence, Jr. There is not that much to the actual plot, but the acting, writing, and careful production (including attractive Technicolor photography) make innocent day-to-day events seem significant, and make the viewer want to see how things come out.
Because of the fine cast, this movie works well as comedy and as a thoughtful look at family life. If you enjoy classic cinema, take a look.
