Action-adventure director
Stanley Tong (
Supercop,
Rumble in the Bronx) did a change of pace by directing this live-action adaptation of UPA's bumbling, near-sighted Mr. Magoo the animated-series character created during the '40s by
John Hubley and others for the cartoon short Ragtime Bear (1949). Millionaire Quincy Magoo (
Leslie Nielsen) won't admit he needs glasses, so nephew Waldo (
Matt Keeslar) removes obstacles in Magoo's path. At a museum exhibition, when Magoo steps up to cut a ceremonial ribbon but instead severs a power line, it sets in motion events making Magoo the target during an international manhunt -- while he continually escapes mishaps by inches. Greg Burson does the voice of Magoo in animated sequences at the film's beginning and end. During the '50s, the animated character (voiced by
Jim Backus) led to two Oscars -- for the jazz-scored
Rooty Toot Toot(1952) and the CinemaScope
When Magoo Flew(1955). ~ Bhob Stewart, All Movie Guide