I have watched Billy Wilder's "The Major and the Minor" twice--not because I liked it but because my impression was so poor compared to the film's very good reputation. Here in "You're Never Too Young", the same terribly flawed plot is recycled but with no originality and A LOT of Jerry (whether or not this is a good thing depends on your feelings about his style of comedy). I actually think I am generous in giving this disappointing film even a 4. Here are some reasons I disliked the film:
1. The plot has to get the viewer to suspend disbelief to the point where the viewer has to be stupid! Who would believe that the almost 30 year-old Jerry could successfully pose as a 13 year-old?!? Not only did he sport a 5 o'clock shadow, but he was 6 feet tall!! And his version of a kid is loud, shrill and annoying.
2. Jerry is loud, shrill and annoying. I frankly wanted to see him shut up and stop overdoing every scene. Subtle he wasn't--which is a shame, as Lewis could be subtle and funny if properly directed.
3. There is no originality at all about the film. It's simply a copy of "The Major and the Minor" and does not improve on it in any way. Dean Martin's songs are pleasant but do not make up for this deficiency.
So, if you love Jerry Lewis films and think he's a genius AND can believe he can pass for a kid, you'll probably enjoy this film. Otherwise, beware!
1. The plot has to get the viewer to suspend disbelief to the point where the viewer has to be stupid! Who would believe that the almost 30 year-old Jerry could successfully pose as a 13 year-old?!? Not only did he sport a 5 o'clock shadow, but he was 6 feet tall!! And his version of a kid is loud, shrill and annoying.
2. Jerry is loud, shrill and annoying. I frankly wanted to see him shut up and stop overdoing every scene. Subtle he wasn't--which is a shame, as Lewis could be subtle and funny if properly directed.
3. There is no originality at all about the film. It's simply a copy of "The Major and the Minor" and does not improve on it in any way. Dean Martin's songs are pleasant but do not make up for this deficiency.
So, if you love Jerry Lewis films and think he's a genius AND can believe he can pass for a kid, you'll probably enjoy this film. Otherwise, beware!