I just saw this film and loved it. But, I think that Pat Boone gave one of the worst performances that I've ever seen from an "actor." He was clearly cast because of his singing, not acting talents. Though he was preposterous, it actually fit well with the film. In a movie about a journey to the center of the Earth, you expect hammy acting. And that phony Scottish accent! Yikes.
shareI didn't think it was any worse than anyone else in the film, but I didn't even realise he was meant to be Scottish until he said he was. He sounded American the entire time :/
Aristotle versus Mashy Spike Plate!
None of the "Scots" sounded Scottish -- not the Prof, nor the Dean, nor the Prof's daughter (full-on American -- how had she grown up with James Mason to sound like that?!), nor the "Laird of Glendarick" (who for some reason wears a MacKenzie tartan). I think the only "Scottish" accent we hear is the woman who consoles Diane Baker at the end (and apparently thinks Alec's broken leg stops him from having sex), and that's obviously fake anyway.
But on the main topic: I think Pat Boone is fine in this, especially for the tone of the production. He was obviously cast to appeal to teenage audiences, which almost justifies his billing over James Mason and explains why he spends so much time shirtless. And his crooning of "Red Red Rose" is actually pretty gorgeous. (In a 1950s crooner-type of way.)
You might very well think that. I couldn't possibly comment.
Him and that damn accordion. He should have just taken a harmonica or something smaller.
shareCan't Agree with the charge.
Halle Berry in Perfect Stranger and Denise Richards in Starship Troopers are performances that made me wince the only time I watched them, but my hands down worst vote goes to Robert Francis in The Caine Mutiny (1954). Pat Boone did a credible job, to me he came across as sincere, attractive, and youthful. If you want a stiff teeny-bopper performance, check out Fabian in Ride the Wild Surf.
Men, if you're willing to fight for our people, I want you!
Not even close to worst performance ever. In fact, this was probably Boone's best ever performance - suited the role admirably.
Have seen this movie several times and everything about it from the odious Count to the beautiful Arlene and the ill-fated Gertrude have made this a
memorable film of my childhood and a wonderful piece of nostalgia in present times.