The Scarecrow

I was curious about this film a few months ago, and lamented that it was not available on tape or DVD anywhere. So imagine my surprise when I found it nestled in the bowels of my own massive video collection a short while later! I'd taped it 10 years earlier and obviously forgotten all about it.

It is a charming little movie--obviously a low-budget, in a "play" format. (Meaning, not any outdoor scenes, all shot inside on a soundstage, etc.) The sets are inexpensive, and the video quality is what you might expect from the era in which is was filmed. (Early '70s.)

Based on an old play, the story moves along nicely, and the entire cast is excellent. Blythe Danner (Gwyneth Paltrow's mom), Will Geer (Grandpa from "The Waltons"), and the late Pete Duel ("Alias Smith and Jones") all do a good job in their rolls.

Of course, Gene Wilder is the star (as the "Scarecrow") and he is very sweet indeed. Interesting to watch, if you can find it. I'm glad I did!

Part of the Broadway Theater Archive Series this remarkable play, shown here in 1972, was written by Percy MacKaye (1875-1956.)

Other than being a powerful addition to the series the draw is of the variety of the actors; many of the actors are well known from the time. Others will want to go back and watch their previous works.

The story called "The Scarecrow" is only called "Scarecrow" on the production cover; This can be confusing when purchasing.

A nice commentary in great prose on the nature of man and revenge. A fund comic version of the time vs. Arthur Miller's "The Crucible."

We started in Massachusetts almost three hundred years ago. A well-designed stage. Rachel Merton (Blythe Danner) purchases a mirror of truth from Goody Rickby (Nina Foch). You will want to keep an eye on the mirror. Gene Wilder plays Lord Ravensbane; he could scare a crow.

As the crow flies so the wind blows.

Wed the girl and sting the justice.

Will things go as planned?

Again, keep your eye on the mirror.

*** no subtitles ***

I remember watching this a long time ago. I really liked it and was trying to see if it was on vhs or dvd on the net. I have always liked Gene Wilder and this was one of the quirky movies that really made an impression on me. Too bad I never recorded it.

Scarecrow is indeed a masterpiece! Astonishing performances and creative dialogues that still bring good magic to all of us after so many decades. Gene Wilder plays an intricate and innocent scarecrow created by witchcraft, who puppet his way into romance, love and self discovery. Wilder's emotions are wondrous to behold. His beautiful baritone voice brightens and bewitches not only the characters in the play.

Gene Wilder is the reason I purchased a DVD of this play after so many years waiting for it. It is also a delight to watch young Blythe Danner, Nina Foch, Norman Lloyd, Pete Duel and Will Geer performing together.

A must-see-play that will both enchant and entertain you.

I finally found a dvd on this movie on Amazon.com. Of course I had to buy it since I've been looking for it for years. I had forgotten how good it really is. The acting is excellent, the show itself is a bit quirky, but totally enjoyable. I had forgotten Pete Duel was in this. I'd recommend it to anyone.