“Charley and the Angel” is a live-action Disney film released in 1973. Directed by Vincent McEveety, the movie is a heartwarming family comedy with a touch of fantasy.
The story revolves around Charley Appleby (played by Fred MacMurray), a workaholic father who neglects his family while focused on his job as a hardware store owner. One day, Charley has a chance encounter with an eccentric and mischievous angel named Roy Zerney (played by Harry Morgan). The angel decides to help Charley mend his ways and become a better father.
Roy Zerney appears before Charley and offers him a deal. He promises Charley that if he spends more time with his family and attends his son’s baseball games, he will receive a windfall in the form of a winning lottery ticket. Charley agrees, and the angel’s magical intervention leads to various comical situations and life lessons.
As Charley starts spending more time with his family, he gains a newfound appreciation for them and learns valuable lessons about the importance of love, family, and the true meaning of happiness.
“Charley and the Angel” combines elements of family drama, comedy, and fantasy to create an entertaining and heartwarming film suitable for all ages. The chemistry between Fred MacMurray and Harry Morgan brings a lot of humor to the story, making it an enjoyable watch for Disney fans.
Though not as well-known as some of Disney’s other live-action classics, “Charley and the Angel” has its charm and offers a positive message about the significance of family bonds and the joys of spending time together.
Additional Details
Cast
- Fred MacMurray: Charley Appleby
- Harry Morgan: The Angel (Roy Zerney)
- Cloris Leachman: Nettie Appleby
- Kathleen Cody: Leonora Appleby
- Scott Kolden: Rupert Appleby
- Vincent Van Patten: Willie Appleby
- Kurt Russell: Ray Ferris
- George Lindsey: Pete
- Edward Andrews: Ernie
- Mills Watson: Frankie Zuto
- Richard Bakalyan: Buggs
- Barbara Nichols: Sadie
- Kelly Thordsen: Policeman
- Liam Dunn: Sprague
- Larry D. Mann: Felix
- George O’Hanlon: Police Chief
- Susan Tolsky: Miss Patridge
- Ed Begley Jr.: Derwood Moseby
- Christina Anderson: Susie
- Roy Engel: Driver
- Pat Delaney: Girl in Sadie’s Place
- Robert Hastings: News Reporter
- Jack Griffin: Policeman #2
Crew
- Director: Vincent McEveety
- Producer: Bill Anderson
- Music: Paul J Smith and Buddy Baker