Charley and the Angel

Charley Appleby is a hard driving dad who keeps his family at arm's length in pursuit of success. One day a radiant visitor appears with a warning that Charley may not have much time left. He is told to rethink his priorities and use what time he has to show love and be present for Nettie and the kids. The story blends light humor with fantasy as Charley tests new attitudes, trying to fix strained relationships, share in everyday moments, and discover if real happiness can be found beyond work and routines. With a wisecracking yet kind presence, the celestial visitor offers Charley a chance to view his life from a different angle, guiding him through moments of miscommunication and missed opportunities. Along the way, Charley learns to listen, to celebrate small milestones, and to admit when he is wrong, even if it means risking his pride.

Directed by Vincent McEveety and produced by Disney, Charley and the Angel arrived in 1973. The story, based on a concept by Roswell Rogers and Will Stanton, pairs Fred MacMurray's steady, everyman performance with Cloris Leachman as Nettie and Kurt Russell as Ray, with Harry Morgan playing the angel, for a warm, family oriented ride.

Critical response was mixed, with praise for the performances and the gentle mix of family comedy and fantasy, and some critics found the plot a touch lightweight. The movie centers on work life balance, forgiveness, and the belief that time with loved ones can reshape a life.

The film is a dated but charming example of 1970s Disney family fantasy. It features a benevolent angel and a well known cast, including a young Kurt Russell, and it reflects the era's emphasis on moral fables in lighthearted storytelling.

Box office data for Charley and the Angel are not widely documented, indicating a modest release typical of many family films from that period.