The Gnome-Mobile

Not one to take seriously, but <em>'The Gnome-Mobile'</em> is endearing and amusing. Walter Brennan is most definitely the best part of it, playing a dual role. He gives a kind, nice performance as Mulrooney, whilst also appearing grumpy and frustrated as Knobby. If it wasn't for the opening credits, I probably wouldn't have realised it was the same actor for a fair while. The rest of the cast are passable, while there's another small but cheery role for Ed Wynn (Rufus). The special effects haven't aged greatly, as I'd expect so I don't hold it against this 1967 production. The plot is quite bonkers, especially the odd finale. It, like <em>'The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin'</em>, chooses comedic journey first and storytelling second - that does hamper things but it's OK if they make it work, which they mostly do. At just 85 minutes, it's a film worth viewing at least once.