Tom Thumb (1958)

People are voting emotionally.

One of my all time favorites.

Highly Overrated But Still Good

Excellent, Without a doubt!!

It's gratifying to know how much this film meant to some folks. Apparently it did what the filmmakers intended, as far as supporters of this work are concerned.For me, it was a rather tedious, limp affair, despite the vigorous performance of Russ Tamblyn. The Pal special effects seemed dated, though impressive from a historical perspective. The songs come across as fair, and the whole enterprise seemed pale and drawn out. One can see the effort (and cost) that went into this production, for it's often quite opulent and elaborate. Perhaps kids from ages 3-7 might be its best audience. There's nothing harmful here for very young children, and their parents might appreciate a film the family can watch together. In that sense, "tom thumb" has a value.

I just watched this tonight. The last time I saw this movie was about thirty years ago. If anyone enjoys Dismey movies and/or anything light-hearted and musical...this is a must-see!The main character, of course appeared later in "West Side Story". He is a fabulous dancer. I'd be afraid to do some of the stunts he did in this film.Also, this film was critically acclaimed for the special effects of this time period.If your children(or you, for that matter) enjoy fairy tales, movies taken from fairy tales. Or, maybe just a little family fun...give this one a try

George Pal's splendid take on the Tom Thumb fairy story marries several intertwining story threads with some excellent special effects, some bravura performances, some cute songs, and a charm which is partly of the period and partly from the innocent joy with which the film is put together.Russ Tamblyn stands out. This film should have made him a major star; instead he enjoyed a steady but unspectacular career. Terry Thomas and Peter Sellers as the two comedy relief crooks form an effective (and funny) double act. And Alan Young and June Thorburn as the would-be lovers work well as the main, but understated, concern throughout the film.But this is a children's film, and the magic of Tom, as created and enhanced by the effects, is what holds the movie together. This film is as enjoyable now as it was over 50 years ago.

George Pal directed this colorful production based on the tale by the Brothers Grimm involving a woodcutter and his wife who are granted a succession of wishes--though their request for a little boy goes somewhat awry when a thumb-sized young man shows up on their doorstep! Very silly story tends to test the boundaries of whimsical fantasy, and Russ Tamblyn as tom thumb is forced to shout out all his lines (which quickly wears out his welcome), but it's certainly an eyeful that may enchant older children. Peggy Lee's songs are enjoyable, Peter Sellers pops up in a supporting role, and the Oscar-winning visual effects are a lot of fun. **1/2 from ****