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This 1948 film takes up what was, at the time, a rather delicate subject. The somber theme is relieved by several fantasy scenes which depict Christopher's daydreams. The backdrop of these sequences resemble enlarged sketches to highlight their fanciful nature. While the humor is rather mild, these dream sequences develop our perception of Chris. They reflect his inner struggle with the decision he must make and reveal his self-perception and psychological resources. Ted Donaldson played Christopher Blake. Ted, born August 20, 1933, was a little older than the character he brought to life in the film.

Filmology

This 1948 film takes up what was, at the time, a rather delicate subject. The somber theme is relieved by several fantasy scenes which depict Christopher's daydreams.

Setting

Cast

Ted Donaldson played Christopher Blake. Ted, born August 20, 1933, was a little older than the character he brought to life in the film. Christopher's character is developed in a series of dream sequences. The backdrop of these sequences resemble enlarged sketches to highlight their fanciful nature. While the humor is rather mild, these dream sequences develop our perception of Chris. They reflect his inner struggle with the decision he must make and reveal his self-perception and psychological resources. Alexis Smith played his mother and Robert Douglas his father. Cecil Kellaway, as the judge, turned in a fine performance as a crusty sort with a kind heart, who only wanted what was best for all the Blakes.

Plot

As the film opens, Christopher Blake's mother meets him upon his return from summer camp. Christopher is a bright, rather imaginative boy of 13 and inclined to daydream. His dad's absence from home alerts Christopher that something isn't quite right. He learns quite by accident that his parents are separated and filing for divorce. Chris must decide whether he wants to live with his father or his mother, a dilemma which Chris is at pains to resolve. During a fishing and camping trip with his dad, Chris' father discloses that he has been seeing another woman. Back home, when this subject is brought up, Chris' mother tells the boy that she feels taken for granted. The moment of truth arrives at the courthouse. The judge, meeting privately with Chris, asks him whether his parents should be divorced. Chris answers yes, and the judge tells him that he had already decided on that course, though he dislikes divorce in general. With Chris in his chambers, the judge first asks for Mrs. Blake to join them. He gives her his decision and directs Chris to tell which parent he chooses to live with. Chris says, "My dad." Mrs. Blake, in tears, is disappointed but accepts Chris' decision and wishes them well. Next Christopher's dad is told to come in, and Chris in everyone's presence, tells his dad he's going to live with his mother! Dad, obviously disappointed, nonetheless, wishes Chris and his mom well. The judge's ploy works, however. Chris' parents realize their lives would be empty apart from each other and without their son.

Costuming

Christopher wore a sports coat over a short-sleeved plaid shirt and long dark trousers in the opening scenes. Later, he wore a long-sleeved light colored shirt with long dark trousers at home. On the fishing trip wore a casual sports shirt and long chino trousers, and in another scene we see Chris in pajamas. Chris wore a dark, double-breasted, long trousers suit, and dark tie with a small pattern in the courtroom scenes. In one of the fantasy scenes Chris wore what looked like a vintage school uniform with long trousers and in another fantasy scene, he's dressed in a tuxedo and top hat.

Assessment

This film has held up reasonably well over the years. The subject of divorce is today hardly taboo, but nonetheless just as traumatic for children today as in 1948, the year of this film. The film's outcome is predictable for modern viewers, and the parents seem quite amicable and civil for two people headed for divorce court. Nevertheless, the film is a sensitive and rather imaginative handling of its theme and still quite watchable.

Created: 1:11 AM 6/11/2005
Last updated: 1:11 AM 6/11/2005