(1949)
3
Craig Butler
Francis is the very definition of a high-concept comedy. Too often, the creators of such works never really move much beyond the concept, resulting in a film that very quickly runs out of steam. Francis is certainly not a classic, but its creators did build sufficiently upon the premise to create an engagingly silly little flick. The writers haven't bothered with much in the way of explanation where Francis is concerned, especially when it comes to how the mule is capable of speech, and some of the jokes are very obvious; but on the whole, Francis is written with a bit more care than might be expected, and the writers seem to enjoy the story they're concocting. Arthur Lubin's pacing is a bit leisurely, and the film clearly was not a big budget effort, but it does boast the amiable presence of Donald O'Connor and the feisty, raspy vocal work of Chill Wills, as well as the daffy ZaSu Pitts. O'Connor is more likeable than any actor has a right to be, and his quirky way with a phrase or the manner in which he lifts an eyebrow go a surprisingly long way. His is an expert comic performance -- not acting for the ages, but a light, delightful little job that helps lift Francis slightly above the ordinary.
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Francis (1949)
