Common Sense Media Review
By Renee Schonfeld
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Comic, clever, and satisfying fairy tale of redemption.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Max Dugan Returns
What's the Story?
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?
MAX DUGAN RETURNS a delightful, warm-hearted comedy for families to share. Neil Simon's bright dialogue, 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 for an enjoyable experience. 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.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the nature of the fairy tale. How does Max Dugan, the movie's "fairy godfather," make Norah's and Mike's wishes come true? What important gifts besides the fancy cars, furniture, etc., does he give them? After Max explains how he got the money, do you agree that Norah and Mike should accept his presents?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 25, 1983
- On DVD or streaming : June 12, 2005
- Cast : Jason Robards , Marsha Mason , Matthew Broderick
- Director : Herbert Ross
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Twentieth Century Fox
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 21, 2019
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