Peter O'Toole brings a different tone to the role of Henry Higgins than did Rex Harrison, the actor most commonly associated with the noted British linguist. O'Toole's talent is as undeniable and obvious as ever, but his performance is much wilder and rougher around the edges than Harrison's was. Unfortunately, Margot Kidder was not up to the role of Eliza Doolittle and the only thing worse than her "cultured" English is the lower-class Cockney dialect used early on. Frances Hyland stands out as Mrs. Higgins, Henry's mother, but the few other parts are given short shrift and are eminently forgettable.
Alan Cooke's direction is quite capable for a television production. Overall this version stands on it's own adequately enough, but it pales in comparison to the film "My Fair Lady."
Alan Cooke's direction is quite capable for a television production. Overall this version stands on it's own adequately enough, but it pales in comparison to the film "My Fair Lady."