Hobson's Choice
Maggie Hobson (Patricia Routledge) decides to marry Willie Mossop (Michael Caine), the gifted but underpaid bootmaker in her father's shop. Despite Willie's objections, they marry and set up for themselves and, within just one year, take almost all of Henry Hobson's trade. Hobson (John Barrie), a heavy drinker, is told by his doctor that one of his daughters must return home to look after him but they all refuse apart from Maggie who, seeing her chance, agrees to help but on one condition: Willie is to take over the business, with Hobson relegated to the position of a sleeping partner with no say in the running of the shop.
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Plot Summary
In 19th-century Salford, England, Henry Horatio Hobson, a proud and pompous bootmaker, rules his household and his shop with an iron fist. When his eldest daughter, the plain but determined Maggie, decides to marry his own skilled employee, Will Mossop, Hobson is furious and disinherited her. However, Maggie and Will soon prove more adept at business than Hobson, and he finds himself increasingly dependent on the very people he scorned.
Critical Reception
This film adaptation of Harold Brighouse's classic play was generally well-received by critics, who praised its faithful adaptation, strong performances, and Lean's directorial touch. Audiences appreciated the blend of humor and character-driven drama.
What Reviewers Say
- A charming and witty adaptation of a beloved play.
- John Mills delivers a memorable performance as the blustering Henry Hobson.
- The film successfully balances humor with poignant character development.
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Fun Fact
Although David Lean directed this 1962 film, he had previously directed a stage adaptation of 'Hobson's Choice' in 1933 which starred Charles Laughton.
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