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Rating: - Don't Forget the Extras!
Since many other reviewers have discussed the plot, I won't bother describing it here. This is a typical family-friendly Disney movie from the 1970s, but the cast, production values, and direction make this one of the better ones. Bill Bixby is nicely cast as the charming gambler, with a big heart. Susan Clark is convincing as the tough on the outside, but soft on the inside, stagecoach driver. The supporting cast of character actors lead by Harry Morgan, David Wayne, and Slim Pickens are well-used. The children are nicely cast, and come off as real kids, not just Hollywood stereotypes. However, special mention must be made for the DELIGHTFUL pairing of Don Knotts and Tim Conway. Their comedy routines generously spaced throughout the movie are hysterical, and you realize you are watching two wonderfully matched professionals doing what they do best.

It's a fun film that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family: it is silly without being gross, it has heart without being too schmaltzy, and when it's finished everyone has a smile on their face. As Susan Clark states in the Look back with the Gang featurette, "it's charming."

Ah, yes, those extras. Since I am reviewing the Special Edition release (2003) of this movie, I must mention the wonderful extra features. The aforementioned Look Back with the Gang shows current (2003) interviews with most of the surviving cast and crew members. Susan Clark talks about how she got this role, the former child actors are all interviewed and they all have positive things to say about the shoot and their co-stars, and there are wonderful parts with Don Knotts and Tim Conway, especially as they discuss filming the infamous firehouse scene. There is nothing scandalous, just some nice memories of a fun job.

There is a fascinating documentary about the Disney studio back lot. You learn about the back lot's evolution over the years, and the many movies that were shot there. Former Disney employees talk about their times on the lot, and how detailed the sets were, etc. A lot of fun, if like me you've seen a number of the films shot there.

There are other features that show the advertising done for the movie, biographies of the cast, a cartoon short, etc. However, as far as I am concerned the best part was the interview with Tim Conway. He discusses his career, especially the movies he made for Disney, and looks back fondly, and hysterically at his career. I had to watch it twice because I kept laughing so hard, I missed a lot the first time through. After watching this interview, I realized what a gem Mr. Conway is. He is truly a comic genius who has thoroughly enjoyed making people laugh for a living. As he points out, his humor was never cruel, never made anyone look stupid, and never embarrassed anyone. That's a rare thing for a comedian to say today.

So, in closing, if you are looking for a fun film for the entire family you can't go wrong with the Apple Dumpling Gang. Don't forget those extras, they're family-friendly too!

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