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Max Dugan Returns

What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Renee Schonfeld

High school teacher Norah McPhee (Marsha Mason) is struggling with the frustrations and financial realities of being a single mom to her son Michael (Matthew Broderick). When her dilapidated car is stolen, it seems to be the last straw. But things begin to look up as she meets Police Detective Brian Costello (Donald Sutherland) and her long-lost father Max Dugan (Jason Robards, Jr.) appears in her doorway late one night. Max has come for forgiveness and to meet the grandson he's never seen. Given only a short time to live, he has money, seemingly endless resources, and a passionate desire to make things right, if only Norah will forgive him and accept his efforts to pay her back. Unfortunately, people from Max's past (including the law) are after the clever con artist, and Detective Costello's unexpected presence in Norah's life complicates everything.

Is It Any Good?

4

Neil Simon's bright dialog, a true-to-life and endearing mother-son relationship, as well as wonderful performances by all the principles (including Matthew Broderick in his very first role) make MAX DUGAN RETURNS a delightful, warm-hearted comedy for families to share. There's nothing new here; It's an old story comically retold. Cinderella turns into a princess and meets Prince Charming, only this time she has a son and a fairy godfather with a case filled with cash, instead of a fairy godmother with a magic wand. It's a funny, clever, and satisfying story.

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