The_Light_Triton
I think at one or another, everyone one of us has wanted to just have a 10-minute conversation with God. This mysterious being we've heard about first in sunday school, were taught to fear in our puberty, questioned in our youth, and for some of us, disbelieved in our adulthood. This movie is just that. except the lucky one is Jerry Landers.
John Denver plays Jerry landers, your average human being. A man who has a wife, 2 kids, and a supermarket job to support the family. One day, he is given the chance to do something most of us have fantasised at least once; the chance to talk with God, played by golden-age comedian, George Burns. God's request to Jerry, is to tell the world "That he exists, and that we have everything to make it work." however, Jerry's family, co-workers, and other associates don't believe him, and they start to believe he's lost his mind, and for Grocery Store supervisors, it's not an uncommon fate.
To start, let me say that I really hope God is exactly like George Burns. He's spot on. he's funny, witty, and not only that, caring and loving. The image of God in the eyes of many is that of a long-bearded, balding angry old man. It's a repulsive vision. George Burns was really a true comedian and as the VHS sleeve says "at 82, He makes the role his own." John Denver plays the role of Jerry Landers very well. Anyone in his position would feel the same exact way in real life. Teri Garr plays Jerry Lander's wife, and Miss Garr was great in every role she did (Not to mention a good looking woman.) Paul Sorvino and David Ogden Stiers also have roles in this film, 2 of my favorite actors.
If you're of christian faith, I'd recommend this one.
jacobs-greenwood
This movie is a delight, so I can't understand why it's rated less than 7 on IMDb.com especially since the majority of review writers rate it higher than the 6.6 composite score (38 Loved It, 8 Hated It before this review).While I wouldn't consider it a must-see (e.g. an 8 or higher rating), it's definitely worth a watch and should entertain anyone who's not hung up on 'dated' (a lazy term to use) material or is too easily offended that George Burns's character isn't consistent with the God of the Bible.First, it's supposed to be a comedy; second, it's a movie. There are almost no movies I can think of that accurately represent their source material, so don't expect this one to be any different. Besides, that John Denver's character drives an AMC Pacer actually enhances the humor for today's audience.Oh, God! (1977) is a charming film: Denver plays a credibly innocent agnostic asst. grocery store manager that comes to belief - that God exists, and that He appears to him quite casually as a kindly old codger (Burns) - such that he follows His instructions: to tell everybody that He's still with 'us' and cares, etc.Teri Garr (fabulous as always) plays Denver's wife, a true believer who, quite naturally, initially treats her husband's story about talking with God with skepticism. But after seeing how sincere he is about what's transpiring, she decides to at least believe in her husband.The couple must explain what's happening to their two children, who are embarrassed at school, and deal with disbelieving press and some stereotypical fanatics that show up at their house. The plot culminates in a court case, and I won't spoil any further.With Carl Reiner directing Larry Gelbart's cleverly written (and Oscar-nominated) screenplay, there are plenty of physical gags and chuckles (unless you take yourself too seriously). Burns delivers his dialogue as if it's off the cuff, e.g. as if God doesn't already know how everything will happen, else the comedy wouldn't work at all.There are plenty of familiar faces in supporting roles, but the film was tightly edited to 98 minutes and some of the actors ended up having little or no dialogue: Ralph Bellamy, William Daniels, Paul Sorvino (especially) and Jeff Corey have the most to say among Donald Pleasence, Barnard Hughes, Barry Sullivan, George Furth and David Ogden Stiers. Dinah Shore appears as herself.
anoceanroars
If you are looking for Biblical truth you will not find it in this film. It goes against all the Bible teaches about God. Jesus is the Son of God.Comedy is also lacking in this film. Cows an afterthought? God did not, nor does not have an afterthought. I know it was supposed to be humorous, but I did not laugh once. Some say this is much funnier than Bruce Almighty, but that is erroneous information. Bruce Almighty has many humorous moments, even Evan Almighty is funnier than Oh God. Sheeeeeeeeep !!This film does not wear its age well. It feels dated. The one good thing about this film is that you could use it as a cultural reference of the times. It has many things from the 70s which do not exist any longer. Tab? George Burns is definitely great in his role, as is Terri Garr, but John Denver is not an actor and it shows. He lacks charisma to carry the picture and does not have the comedic timing of the great comediennes of the 70s.I rate this 4/10 and i feel generous.
Trevor Douglas
I have always enjoyed this film. Perfect cast, likable leads and great sound track. Ah the 1970s, what an era of memorable films. John Denver is superb as always and who else but George Burns could play God so convincingly! Teri Garr is gorgeous as John's wife and what a supporting cast! Paul Sorvino is a standout! I am amazed that the IMDb has not included Stuart Nisbet as the doorman with whom John Denver speaks. Stuart has two scenes near the elevator. Clyde Kusatsu is also there in the grocery store when John is talking to God in the security mirror. I realize both are uncredited, so perhaps they can now be included in the film's cast. Go ahead and enjoy yourself in this timeless classic from a bygone era.