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The Worst Film Ever

So much average

Good story, Not enough for a whole film

Best movie ever!

Several days ago, I watched Andy Griffith in his film debut in the drama Face in the Crowd. Now I just watched on Netflix disc this, his second film recreating his Broadway/TV role as Will Stockdale in the quite funny comedy No Time for Sergeants. His naive characterization is quite a change from his cynical "Lonesome" Rhodes in FITC but wasn't too different from his initial fame as a comic storyteller when he spun something called "What It Was, Was Football" and it led to his long-lasting fame as Sheriff Andy Taylor on "The Andy Griffith Show" on which that character was also quite more humorous initially before becoming more of a straight man to deputy Don Knotts. Knotts, also repeating his Broadway role here, was quite hilarious in his brief part as one of the officers having to deal with Stockdale's way of doing things. So was Myron McCormick as the sergeant wanting to rid of Will and his pal who's played by Nick Adams. Since this was made during peacetime, that fact that the superior military officers don't get dignified treatment here isn't much of a surprise which is refreshing. So on that note, I highly recommend No Time for Sergeants. P.S. I was also pleasantly surprised to see Jamie Farr appear as a pilot here, about more than a decade before playing the cross-dressing Cpl. Klinger on the TV show M*A*S*H.

This is an excellent movie. Andy Griffith in the lead role as easy-going, always well- meaning Will Stockdale is a joy to behold. Having played this part on Broadway, Griffith had a long time to hone his performance. His performance is delightful. Nick Adams, who did not have the benefit of a long Broadway run to develop his performance, is well able to keep pace with Griffith, exhibiting a fine sense of comedic timing that was rarely utilized in his future choice of roles (unfortunately). Myron McCormick, another veteran of the Broadway production, delivers an equally deft comedic performance. In fact, the entire cast, down to the smallest role, delivers high-quality performances that make this film entertaining to watch over and over again. I highly recommend this well-made film as an example of the happy result of the collaboration of talented professionals.

Before Andy Griffith the movie star/ TV actor, there was Andy Griffith the stand up comic. Doing the naive hick routine was part of his comical act. One notable bit was entitled "What It Was, Was Football." In this bit he was very much like Will Stockdale explaining football . Naturally he was perfect for "No Time For Sargents." This movie showcased what a comic genius Griffith really was,and was also notable for being Don Knott's first movie. Later they would star opposite each other on the extremely popular "Andy Griffith Show." This is a very well done comedy about military life and I would highly recommend it for all ages. Co-starring Nick Adams.

(No intentional spoilers) From start till finish each main actor portrays a character that really becomes a character that is fun to watch and memorable in their performance. For example, the naiveté, 'backwardness', and optimism of Andy Griffith's Will Stockdale is refreshing and sets the tone for good object lessons throughout the film. From the tender feelings expressed for an aged parent, to taking a bullied stranger under his wing and looking out for him, to misconstruing a punishment for a promotion and then doing it better than had ever been done, to the unreserved loyalty for his superior officer and fellow recruits, this is a movie with a heart and the ability to prompt enough belly laughs to keep your sides in enough stitches that you will no doubt savor it for some time. It's rather a sad commentary that so-called comedies today can't hold a candle to a movie made over 50 years ago with no cursing, nudity, questionable moral themes, and humor all ages can laugh at, but maybe that's what some call progress. And it's finally out on DVD!