The main appeal of 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady' is the cast, my main reason for seeing it in the first place and after watching it was the main reason why it is as worthwhile as it is. Gordon McRae and Debbie Reynolds were major talents that lifted any film they were in with their presence, June Haver was also very talented but is pretty underrated now and SZ Sakall has proved numerous times that he can be a cuddly and amusing scene-stealer.
Luckily, the cast don't disappoint. Haver is poised and charming throughout, while Reynolds is her usual peppy, adorable and spunky self. McRae sings a dream as always and acquits himself well in the acting stakes, while solid support also comes from Gene Nelson and a touching James Barton in a rare screen appearance.
Only Sakall disappoints somewhat, with his fumbling schtick gradually coming over as annoying and overdone. Jane Darwell also doesn't register particularly strongly in a role that gives her little to do.
Handsomely mounted production values and quaint photography are further things to like, as well as more than able direction and pleasant and beautifully performed music and songs. The dancing is suitably energetic and poised, and 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady' has its amusing and poignant moments. The film moves quickly with very rare a dull stretch.
Really, Sakall, some at times rather insipid dialogue that really comes over as corny and sometimes stilted and a story that has great atmosphere but is also very slight to non-existence and with one too many routine parts are the only real issues here in 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady'.
All in all, a charming and easy to like film that isn't great but doesn't try to be or do any more than needed. 7/10 Bethany Cox
Luckily, the cast don't disappoint. Haver is poised and charming throughout, while Reynolds is her usual peppy, adorable and spunky self. McRae sings a dream as always and acquits himself well in the acting stakes, while solid support also comes from Gene Nelson and a touching James Barton in a rare screen appearance.
Only Sakall disappoints somewhat, with his fumbling schtick gradually coming over as annoying and overdone. Jane Darwell also doesn't register particularly strongly in a role that gives her little to do.
Handsomely mounted production values and quaint photography are further things to like, as well as more than able direction and pleasant and beautifully performed music and songs. The dancing is suitably energetic and poised, and 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady' has its amusing and poignant moments. The film moves quickly with very rare a dull stretch.
Really, Sakall, some at times rather insipid dialogue that really comes over as corny and sometimes stilted and a story that has great atmosphere but is also very slight to non-existence and with one too many routine parts are the only real issues here in 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady'.
All in all, a charming and easy to like film that isn't great but doesn't try to be or do any more than needed. 7/10 Bethany Cox