Movies made before VHS - and certainly before television - must be viewed at home under a different light. In the eyes of the filmmaker, their movie was meant to be seen on a big screen, for as long as the movie would be seen. There are some movies that don't mind being shrunk down to size, though they are all better on a big screen. But then there are films that simply do not translate. 2001: A Space Odyssey is virtually unwatchable on a television. Lawrence of Arabia seems small and dull. Silent classics such as Sunrise and Metropolis lose their sense of spectacle almost entirely. If I had never seen Solaris in theaters, it would most likely not currently reside in my top ten favorite films of all time list.
Playtime, Tati's third film starring himself as M. Hulot, is a masterpiece, and it's one of my favorite films to see on the big screen. I suspect Mon Oncle would also benefit greatly from a big screen presentation. It is hard, for example, to appreciate the elaborate process of climbing and descending stairs that Hulot goes through in his apartment building from a single long shot unless the details are made that much pleasing and accessible.
Still, it is an undeniably enjoyable moment, and there are plenty of others here. But without many words and even less plot, the film can feel drawn out at home, where patience is in higher demand. This is a strong film - though it lacks the true brilliant spectacle of Playtime. It's just better served by its originally intended viewing location.
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