Though an authentic voice of the late 1970s and '80s, with a particular talent for detail and dialogue, Beattie's style unfortunately has become dreary, unforceful, and dated.
The chances of a party resurgence seem slim under the current leadership of Alessandro Natta, who is bland and unforceful.
Balding and gently unforceful in speech and manner, Bob Newhart seems less like a comedian than like a fellow who is about to ask if he may go downstairs and read the meter .