Whatever Happened to Harold Smith? (2000)

Whatever Happened to Harold Smith? Poster

It's 1976, and Vinny is a confused teenager who can't decide whether he is a disco king or a proto punk rocker.

Introduction and Plot Overview
"Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?" is a 2000 British comedy film directed by Peter Hewitt, concentrating on the life of a retired person called Harold Smith and his household in 1970's Britain. The screenplay is written by Ben Steiner, featuring popular stars like Tom Courtenay, Michael Legge, and Stephen Fry.

Harold Smith (Tom Courtenay) is a retired ex-lawyer who all of a sudden manifests amazing telekinetic powers, bring in the attention of numerous celebrations, consisting of a major record company and a spiritual cult. The plot of the film primarily revolves around these newly found powers and the results they have on Harold Smith and his household.

Main Characters and Relationships
Harold Smith, in spite of his newfound abilities, stays a simple and peaceful character. Vince Smith (Michael Legge), Harold's kid, is a disco enthusiast utilized by the record business that ends up being thinking about Harold's capabilities. Remarkably, Vince is utterly clueless of his daddy's powers and is more taken part in his unrequited love for his associate, Joanna Robinson (Laura Fraser).

Especially, Peter Robinson (Stephen Fry), Joanna's dad and a lawyer at the record company, ends up being obsessed with Harold's capabilities. He looks like a comic bad guy, pressurizing Harold to exploit his powers for popularity and individual gain.

Advancement of the Plot and Climax
As the film earnings, Harold's life changes drastically as news of his powers spreads. His house is besieged by media and onlookers, and even a religious cult begins to praise him, believing he has been touched by God. Meanwhile, Vince needs to navigate his growing sensations for Joanna, frequently listening from his disco-dancing pals.

The climax of the plot gets here when Harold is asked to show his powers on a live national TV program. In a twist of occasions, Harold fails to carry out any telekinic acts, triggering extensive disillusionment and shock.

Resolution and Ending
After his publicly dreadful television appearance, Harold's life returns back to its previous dullness. Peter Robinson is devastated, having actually pinned high hopes on Harold's powers for his selfish gain. Vince finally gathers the nerve to face Joanna about his feelings, and the 2 start dating.

Final Thoughts
"Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?" offers an uncommon blend of comedy, romance, and components of science fiction. Although it took pleasure in moderate success at package workplace, the movie did not get considerable crucial recognition. Critics were divided about its unconventional storyline and satirical portrayal of 70s British culture.

Nevertheless, audiences fondly remember the film for its distinctive humor, brilliant portrayal of the disco era, and the endearing character of Harold Smith, separated but warmed by his eccentric household and unfolding occasions. In general, "Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?" provides a distinctively amusing, nostalgic journey through 70s Britain.

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