Rating summary

Movie		4.0
Video		4.0
Audio		3.0
Extras		3.0
Overall		3.0

Little Giant Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf December 1, 2019

A mama’s boy from the country, Benny (Lou Costello) is hoping to transform himself into a financial success through hard work, acquiring employment with the Hercules Vacuum Company, run by John (Bud Abbott). Benny sets out to impress his boss with door-to-door sale results, finding it more than difficult to unload his stock, while his co-workers play pranks, even convincing the bumpkin he’s psychic. While Benny tries his best to prove his worth, John is in deep with cooked books, finding the new hire coming dangerously close to exposing his fraud.

The partnership of Abbott and Costello was in trouble during the filming of 1946’s “Little Giant.” The boys were estranged, dealing with personal issues and public spats, but the show must go on, and it did with the feature, which made a deliberate choice to limit their shared screentime. The partnership isn’t quite there outside of a few routines, but the divide actually strengthens “Little Giant,” forcing Abbott and Costello to develop their dramatic talents while finding slightly different ways to be funny. It’s an interesting movie is this respect, observing the divide generate a new vibe to the brand, with Abbott trying to sink deeper into his character (actually two of them), while Costello still plays the clown, only here he’s a softer, more emotive actor allowed relationships and humiliations.

Little Giant Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Arriving on Blu-ray with appreciable definition, the AVC encoded image (1.37:1 aspect ratio) presentation for "Little Giant" provides a clear look at production achievements, helping to appreciate the uptick in cinematic quality. Textures are easily spotted during the viewing experience, finding costuming fibrous, securing woolen suits and sheer nightgowns. Distances are dimensional, working well during farm visits, while sets are open for inspection. Facial surfaces are satisfactory. Delineation is secure.

Little Giant Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix has more an issue with age, as heavy hiss and crackling carries throughout the listening event. Dialogue exchanges go as far as possible, and while not precise, performances retain their intended comedic and dramatic intentions. Scoring also doesn't break through with crispness, but emotional moods are understood, with reasonable instrumentation.

Little Giant Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Commentary features Scott Allen Nollen.

• Image Gallery (4:37) collects film stills, publicity shots, poster art, and lobby cards.

• Production Notes (1:31) offer information on the making of "Little Giant."

• And a Theatrical Trailer (2:07, SD) is included.

Little Giant Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

"Little Giant" isn't a radical departure for Abbott and Costello, but the nudge to get them to try new things is noticeable, creating a dramatically stronger effort that's unlike anything they've done before. Remaining on opposite sides of the film is strange to see, but their schism works in the picture's favor, shaking up the norm to test Abbott and Costello in exciting ways.