Houseboat

Left to care for his three children after the death of his wife, an attorney (Cary Grant) hires the well-to-do but slumming daughter (Sophia Loren) of an orchestra conductor as housekeeper and governess. As formula demands, the two inevitably fall for each other in spite of a few obstacles conveniently placed in their path. Despite the estimable presence of the always suave Grant and glamorous Loren, this 1958 romantic comedy is surprisingly lackluster--due in no small part to the obvious script and merely functional direction. On the technical side, the DVD transfer is first rate, struck from a clean print bearing little sign of wear. DVD extras are limited to a photo gallery and pair of trailers. Not a necessary purchase. (T. Rich)