Other than Laurel and Hardy (who were subtracted to MGM through Hal Roach Studios), it is amazing that the most prestigious film studio in the 1940s (MGM) made such dull short subject films. I've watched a few of the so-called "Pete Smith Specialties" and have never been all that impressed due to the rather smug narration by Smith and the usual second-rate acting (overacting) by the cast. While I LOVE MY CHILDREN, BUT! is far better than the average Pete Smith film, it is sad to say that represents probably the best film you'll find in the series.
This short illustrates the joys of permissive parenting. Again and again, you see a child who is seemingly demon possessed and his weakling father use "psychology" (?) to get the child to behave. Of course, the permissiveness is stupid and the narrator strongly advocates corporal punishment--or perhaps a good beating!! Oddly, while such permissiveness is dumb, no middle ground is explored--just the narrator imploring the audience to whack the kids soundly to let them know who's boss! While I hate permissive parents and their evil spawn, I can't help but worry about the film's message. You really DO want to see the kid get spanked, but worry that perhaps it was advocating for a whole lot more!! Highly funny and highly disturbing.
This short illustrates the joys of permissive parenting. Again and again, you see a child who is seemingly demon possessed and his weakling father use "psychology" (?) to get the child to behave. Of course, the permissiveness is stupid and the narrator strongly advocates corporal punishment--or perhaps a good beating!! Oddly, while such permissiveness is dumb, no middle ground is explored--just the narrator imploring the audience to whack the kids soundly to let them know who's boss! While I hate permissive parents and their evil spawn, I can't help but worry about the film's message. You really DO want to see the kid get spanked, but worry that perhaps it was advocating for a whole lot more!! Highly funny and highly disturbing.