They Might Be Giants(1971)
“When they reach out for each other... they touch every heart... with warmth, charm and laughter!”
Overview
After the death of his wife, retired judge Justin Playfair creates a fantasy world for himself in which he is the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, even dressing like the character. Out of concern for Justin's money more than his health, his brother Blevins puts him under the care of psychiatrist Dr. Mildred Watson. As Dr. Watson grows fond of Justin, she begins to play along with his theories, eventually becoming an assistant in his investigations.
Director
Anthony Harvey
Studio
Universal Pictures
Cast
George C. Scott
as Justin Playfair
Joanne Woodward
as Dr. Mildred Watson
Jack Gilford
as Wilbur Peabody
Lester Rawlins
as Blevins Playfair
Al Lewis
as Messenger
Rue McClanahan
as Daisy Playfair
Theresa Merritt
as Peggy
James Tolkan
as Mr. Brown
Kitty Winn
as Grace
F. Murray Abraham
as Clyde (the usher)
Paul Benedict
as Chestnut Man
M. Emmet Walsh
as 1st Sanitation Man
Where to Watch
Availability may vary by region. Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Movie Facts
Release Year
1971
Runtime
1h 38m
Language
English
Rating
7 / 10
Production Companies
Universal Pictures • Newman-Foreman Company
You Might Also Like
Crime / Mystery
The Girl on the Train
2016
Mystery / Crime
Sherlock Holmes in Washington
1943
Crime / Mystery
The Woman in the Window
2021
Mystery / Crime
The Woman in Green
1945
Comedy / Mystery
High Anxiety
1977
Mystery / Thriller
A Haunting in Venice
2023
Crime / Mystery
Murder by Decree
1979
Mystery / Thriller
Memento
2000
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch They Might Be Giants?▼
Check the "Where to Watch" section above for current streaming platforms, rental options, and purchase links for They Might Be Giants (1971).
What is They Might Be Giants about?▼
After the death of his wife, retired judge Justin Playfair creates a fantasy world for himself in which he is the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, even dressing like the character. Out of concern for Justin's money more than his health, his brother Blevins puts him under the care of psychiatrist Dr. Mildred Watson. As Dr. Watson grows fond of Justin, she begins to play along with his theories, eventually becoming an assistant in his investigations.
Who directed They Might Be Giants?▼
They Might Be Giants was directed by Anthony Harvey and released in 1971. It is a comedy, mystery film.
How long is They Might Be Giants?▼
They Might Be Giants has a runtime of 1 hours and 38 minutes (98 minutes total).
Who stars in They Might Be Giants?▼
The cast of They Might Be Giants includes George C. Scott as Justin Playfair, Joanne Woodward as Dr. Mildred Watson, Jack Gilford as Wilbur Peabody, Lester Rawlins as Blevins Playfair, Al Lewis as Messenger and more.
Explore More by Genre
Need a recommendation?
Tell us your mood and we'll pick the perfect movie for you.