AllMovie

Penelope is a totally implausible comedy, and that very implausibility will be too big a liability for many viewers. Those willing to accept its ludicrous premise, however, will likely enjoy this featherweight romp. True, Penelope tries too hard to be wacky and zany and therefore ends ups a little too noisy and rowdy, but it's still amiable and fun. In the title role, Natalie Wood is also guilty of giving it too much of the old college try; depending upon one's tolerance for Wood's personality, this may or may not be a problem. Dick Shawn may also be something of an acquired taste, but there's very solid work from Ian Bannen, Peter Falk, Norma Crane, and especially Jonathan Winters. Arthur Hiller is a little off his form as director, but, in general, the film flows smoothly -- and it (and the leading lady) look terrific. The Edith Head costumes are yummy and the general design is candy-colored scrumptious. Penelope is not to everyone's taste, but those in the mood for an unchallenging evening will eat it up.