Matthew Broderick and the rest of the cast really tried, I am sure. But when you have had the best, it is just impossible to redo it. The characters in this one were without "character" and were bland, both in voice and looks. Mrs. Shinn blended in with all the rest of the ladies, not standing out as Hermione Gingold did. It was the same with all the rest of the important characters. Buddy Hackett was perfect for his part....his substitute is just an imitation. I don't blame any of the actors....they did the best they could. But Professor Hill was a strong character with a fascination about him. Matthew B. just couldn't seem to do it. It was like a young man trying to imitate his father. They were all just shadows of the original. I have always believed that if you had a hit with a movie.... a strong cast for the characters....it should never be remade. Just never quite matches up. At least it surely didn't in this one. I cringed for the actors, trying their best, even with the script changes. Not one I'd ever recommend.
Review of The Music Man
