The North Avenue Irregulars (1979)

This lighthearted mix of slapstick and social satire isn't all it could have been but remains a likable effort. The script has a great premise but the quality of the writing is unfortunately a bit thin: The second act lacks structure and pace, ultimately devolving into a series of disconnected set pieces, and the writer never develops a single memorable villain for the heroes to battle. Despite these problems, The North Avenue Irregulars remains solid family fare thanks to skilled direction and performances. Director Bruce Bilson keeps the tone light and the pacing fast by placing an emphasis on visual humor (sight gags abound and the film is bookended with nifty slapstick set pieces). He also gives his cast plenty of room to add wit and warmth to their broad characterizations: Edward Herrmann is a delight as Reverend Hill, mixing middle-class charm and sharp comic timing to create a performance that conjures up memories of Jack Lemmon, and Susan Clark adds a bit of dramatic weight that keeps the film from floating off into pure silliness. However, the true scene stealers are the women who assist Reverend Hill in his crusade: Barbara Harris stands out as an unflappably prim suburban mom and Cloris Leachman is both amusing and touching as the lonely old maid of the group. All in all, The North Avenue Irregulars is good family fun and one of Disney's better live-action efforts from the 1970s. ~ Donald Guarisco, All Movie Guide