The Impossible Years

The Impossible Years is a rib-tickling comedy-drama from the year 1968, directed by Michael Gordon and starring David Niven, Lola Albright, and Chad Everett in the leading roles. This film is an adaptation of a 1965 play by Bob Fisher and Arthur Marx, which was a hit on Broadway. The movie's humor revolves around and revels in the timeless theme of the generation gap, managed with flair, wit, and a good deal of warmth.

David Niven, one of the most charming and wittiest actors of his era, takes the center stage as Jonathan Kingsley, a respected psychology professor. He specializes in teenagers and their adolescent problems, often advising parents about how to deal with the issues of this challenging age. However soon, the challenges hit home for Kingsley when he realizes he cannot deal with his own teenage daughters, despite his vast knowledge and intellect. Thus begins the enjoyable dilemma which forms the crux of the movie.

Lola Albright plays the role of Alice Kingsley, Jonathan's supportive and understanding, yet equally frustrated wife. She competently matches Niven's comedic timing and brings a genuine warmth to the role of a mother and a wife dealing with chaotic family life.

Chad Everett is part of the mix as the older daughter's boyfriend who, in many ways, represents the 1960s counter-culture that so perplexes and frightens Professor Kingsley. In the comfortable but confused Kingsley household, the conflict between old and new social norms adds an extra layer of comedy and social commentary.

The film's storyline is primarily focused on Professor Kingsley's 'impossible years' dealing with his two rebellious and independent daughters. This becomes especially challenging given his profession as a psychology professor and youth specialist. The clichéd phrase – "it's easier said than done" – amusingly comes to life throughout the journey of Professor Jonathan Kingsley.

The director, Michael Gordon, who is known for his knack in handling comedy, delivers a fun-filled watch that is laced with touching moments, thereby making the movie more appealing to a broader spectrum of audience. There's a heart to the humor, keeping it from becoming too farcical or caricaturish.

The screenplay is astutely written, balancing both humor and seriousness adequately so that one never overwhelms the other. Simultaneously, it tactfully incorporates key moments of 1960s society, infusing a sense of nostalgia.

David Niven is delightful as Jonathan Kingsley. He displays his comedic skills effectively throughout, with impeccable timing. His facial expressions and body language create moments of pure hilarity. Lola Albright does an excellent job as Alice Kingsley. The chemistry between Niven and Albright is commendable and quite a pleasure to watch.

Chad Everett rounds out the leading trio with a performance that provides a perfect foil to Niven’s father figure. His confident and defiant demeanor typifies the idealism and rebellion of the late 60s youth, challenging the comfortable bourgeois lifestyle of the Kingsleys.

The Impossible Years stands as a classic that cleverly highlights the theme of generation gap and youth rebellion, portraying them in a light and comical way. By fusing social commentary with humor, it appeals to all ages. The film still connects today due to its universally relatable core concept of the generational divide.

One can watch it for its memorable performances, particularly by David Niven, and its subtle yet poignant portrayal of family dynamics. With a fantastic mix of humor, drama, and a dash of romance, it comes across as a refreshing film from the late 60s. Let David Niven’s Professor Kingsley take you on a laughter-wrapped tour around the theme of father-daughter relationships in the era of the 60s.

In a nutshell, The Impossible Years is a classic movie that makes for a thoroughly entertaining watch with its effortlessly funny sequences, brilliant performances and the timeless exploration of the generation divide. The film amounts to be an enjoyable trip down memory lane, making it worth revisiting.