Review of Overboard

Kurt Russell has accumulate a vast array of movie roles which originate from the Disney back lots, to the futuristic outer planets. Occasionally, he is able to surprise fans by creating a surprising left-field hit. This movie directed by Garry Marshall, called " Over-Board " is one of his best. The nexus of this story is about a struggling carpenter named Dean Proffitt, who with his four boys live off the coast of Maine in a dilapidated estate. Requested by Joanna Stayton (Goldie Hawn) to refurbish her state room and living quarters with some innovations, she refuses to pay for them when they are not to her satisfaction. Thrown off the yacht, Dean is forced to leave without payment. However later, when Joanna falls overboard and awakens in a hospital with amnesia, both her uncaring husband Grant (Edward Herrmann) and Dean take full advantage of her misfortune. Roddy McDowall plays Andrew, Mrs. Stayton's butler and is superb in this character. The movie is a hilarious situation-comedy as Dean allows Stayton to experience the roles of wife, mother and eventually lover. For Russell fans the film is yet one more example of the versatility of the veteran actor who continues to surprise audiences with his theatrical prowess. Easilly recommended for all audiences. ****