Among the many macabre and bizarre characters to make a popular landing, The Addams Family created by Charles Addams seemed to have stuck with audiences the most. Originally starting as a series of illustrations and then adapted for television in 1964 for a brief period, it was mainly syndication airing did other generations get exposure. Thankfully, that influence worked its way to a movie producer’s child which lit the green light for a theatrical film version. Despite Charles Addams not living long enough to see it, most would probably think he’d enjoy it. This first shot at bringing the characters from the small to big screen is a very faithful tribute. There are though things to discuss within its execution as avid fans of the franchise may be a little surprised after learning of the story.
Larry Wilson, writer of Beetlejuice (1988) and Caroline Thompson writer of Edward Scissorhands (1990) are credited for this screenplay. It is often a mistake that although both have worked on Tim Burton project, that this film is one of them. When in fact, the movie is directed Barry Sonnenfeld in his first credit in such a position at the time. The story is about Gomez (Raul Julia) fretting over an argument that happened decades ago between him and Uncle Fester (Christopher Lloyd). Now upon the “anniversary” of that moment, Gomez is hoping his brother will come home. Meanwhile, lawyer Tully Alford (Dan Hedaya) is hoping to seize the Addams’ family fortune to pay off loan shark Abigail Craven (Elizabeth Wilson). To do this, Tully convinces her to use her adopted son Gordon (also Christopher Lloyd) who looks awfully like Uncle Fester.
On paper, the story sounds interesting. After all, the Addams family were always known for being super wealthy. In regards to character focus it can be disappointing to fans as the story is not aligning itself with the basic structure the show was known for. The concept of the series was that “father knows best”. It was the top down who led the way (mostly). Perhaps it’s due to the change in times but turning the spotlight into something of an Uncle Fester chronicle is not exactly what fans may have been expecting. Especially since this is the first outing on the big screen. Why make it about Uncle Fester? Making it less Addams family oriented are the side characters like Tully and his wife Margaret (Dana Ivey). They just aren’t needed; it could’ve just been about Abigail Craven if necessary.
These are really the biggest issues. However, everything else with the film is spot on in any way one can think. The main actors and their performances are by far the best part – especially Gomez and Morticia. Raul Julia as Gomez brings the right flair to the title role and is equally as charismatic as John Astin was in the TV show. Anjelica Huston as Morticia may not play her character like Carolyn Jones but it is just as passionate and attractive. Playing Wednesday and Pugsley are Christina Ricci and Jimmy Workman respectively. Both have charm but of course many remember Ricci for her deadpan delivery. Christopher Lloyd is decent as Uncle Fester although he could have made his voice a little higher in pitch. Judith Malina as Mama Addams is fun to watch as is Carel Struycken as Lurch even though he only growls with no dialog. Christopher Hart as Thing must have had an interesting job playing just a hand and even John Franklin plays Cousin Itt, even though he’s never seen.
Visually speaking the film properly reflects the gothic imagery known to be in the Addams family. The production design from Richard Macdonald makes the Addams’ house feel ten times larger than the TV version. Credit should also go to Owen Roizman for helping make that happen as cinematographer even though Sonnenfeld had taken over by end of production. Music to boot was fantastic. Composed by Marc Shaiman, the La-La Land release contains the full soundtrack and score material using all kinds of instruments although mainly organ and full orchestra are heard. Thankfully the original Addams family theme composed by Vic Mizzy is also referenced within the album and film for those who feel it should be acknowledged. With over an hour of material including bonus tracks, it should be stressed any fan of the series should acquire this for an entertaining listening experience.
The core of story may not be what fans want but this doesn’t make the entire experience insignificant. Side characters aren’t really important but the actors chosen for the roles perform well. The comedic dynamic between the family members are just as strong as before. The look of the film also wins big points as well as the music.
Points Earned --> 7:10
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