Academy Award winners Elizabeth Taylor and Spencer Tracy return in their starring roles from “Father of the Bride” in this delightful comedy of battling in-laws–Father’s Little Dividend. Stanley and Ellie Banks (Tracy and Joan Bennett) have barely had time to recover from their daughter’s (Taylor) wedding when they learn they are to be grandparents. Their dreams of peace and quiet are soon shattered by baby wails and dirty diapers!

For thoughts on Father’s Little Dividend, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:

[youtube https://youtu.be/17tejdPYFEY?si=VGpgnoHg-setENLV&t=749]

Video Quality

Warner Archive presents Father’s Little Dividend for the first time on Blu-Ray with 1080p transfer sourced from a 4K scan of the Original Nitrate Camera Negative. Warner Archive has once again knocked it out of the park as this disc stands out as a highlight of the label. This black and white feature has flawlessly resolved natural film grain throughout which provides a tremendous amount of detail to the image. Take a look at any bit of clothing or production design and experience the texture on display. Print damage is not even given a second though as you avoid any nicks, scratches or flicker. The presentation allows for a substantial amount of depth in every setting with no evidence of any black crush. Warner Archive has reminded us why we love them so.

Audio Quality

This Blu-Ray release comes with a newly restored DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track that handles this material very well. The score comes through with a grand fidelity without appearing harsh or thin. The film is filled with quick exchanges of dialogue which never fail to come through clearly throughout the duration. The environmental effects and the music are appropriately balanced so that the dialogue never struggles for prominence. There does not appear to be any hint of damage or age related wear and tear to the track. This is a robust audio presentation that gives the material the life it deserves. There are optional English (SDH) subtitles available on the disc.

Special Features

Just Ducky: A seven-minute Tom & Jerry short in which a newly-hatched duckling is befriended by Jerry who protects him against Tom. This is presented in HD and Dolby Digital 2.0 audio.

Jerry and the Goldfish: A seven-minute Tom & Jerry short in which Jerry is once again protecting a friend (this time a goldfish) against a hungry Tom. This is presented in HD and Dolby Digital 2.0 audio.

Pete Smith Specialty Bargain Madness A ten-minute live-action short is provided in which housewives compete for deep discounts at department stores.

Theatrical Trailer: The four-minute trailer is provided here.

Final Thoughts

Father’s Little Dividend may not quite be up to the level of the original film, but it proves its worth as a charming continuation of the story which delights on its own merits. The terrific cast returns for another journey into familial disquiet. The situations are not unnecessarily exploded into a madcap situation, which allows the film to ground its emotions in something pure. You may not laugh out loud as much this time around, but you will feel a warmth once you reach the end. Warner Archive has released a Blu-Ray featuring a top tier A/V presentation and a nice collection of special features. If you enjoy old-school Hollywood charm, this is a pure delight. Recommended

Father’s Little Dividend can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or through various other online retailers.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Warner Archive has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.