He Was Once (1989) | Streaming Guide & Showtimes
He Was Once (1989) — This bizarre parody of the animated religious children’s show Davey and Goliath uses actors but
He Was Once (1989) Storyline
This bizarre parody of the animated religious children’s show Davey and Goliath uses actors but looks like Claymation because of the stop motion, distorted voices, giant prosthetic ears and hair and sets that make Pee-Wee’s Playhouse look realistic. Davey’s father whips him with a belt for saying that he saw a bear, though he really did see a bear, while his sister looks on in glee. His dog Goliath, actually a leopard-skin footrest with a grotesque tail, tries to help but gets whipped too. Oedipal dream sequences and Davey’s revenge are also highlights in this unforgettable and darkly hilarious suburban nightmare.
Full Cast & Crew
- Todd Adams as Davey
- Salvador Barone as Dad
- Susan Norman as Sally
- Emma Strahs as Mom
- Melissa Gardner as Shirley
- Todd Haynes as Randy
- Julia Haltigan as The Bear
- Cyril Autun as Goliath (voice)
- Rob LaBelle as Dad (voice)
Why Watch He Was Once?
The Vibe: He Was Once is a lighthearted, hilarious, and uplifting comedy movie that firmly establishes itself as a must-watch from 1989. The pacing and atmosphere are perfectly calibrated to keep you engaged from start to finish.
Fan Reception: While holding a polarized score of 6.8/10, it retains a dedicated audience who appreciate its specific stylistic choices and unique premise.
Who Should Watch It: Highly recommended for those looking for a fun, stress-relieving watch. If you enjoy character-driven arcs layered with comedy-specific tropes, this deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Movie Details & Production
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