This movie is a sweet light hearted comedy. You should watch it twice if possible. Once to just see it and the second time to get the parts you missed the first time through. The story could be set in most any time frame or city with minor variations. It is a traditional tale of the good looking male who is beginning to feel a little 'past it' and a beautiful younger female with a major crush on him. There is a nicely balancing, very attractive, other woman of his own age who 'understands' only too well. There are a number of variations that thicken the plot - some are for laughter, some are for romance. This particular cast of actors and actresses fill their parts delightfully well. The many supporting character parts only add to the enjoyment of the movie. I truly enjoy the musical score, especially the title song "But Not for Me", and the way it is worked through the movie.
20 Reviews
A bit awkward, but generally likable comedy...
moonspinner5526 May 2008
Odd to find Clark Gable, in one of his final films, trying his damnedest to perk up such an outright piece of fluff. As a 50-ish theatrical producer fighting off the unwanted affections of his smitten juvenile secretary--and later using his predicament as the basis for a new play--Gable initially seems unsure of himself, though he does locate the dumb spirit of the piece and warms up midway through. As the lovestruck working girl, newcomer Carroll Baker is sweet but also stiff (and her hairstyle and clothes don't seem to match her age--she doesn't look like what other young ladies of this period resemble). Remake of 1935's "Accent on Youth" is hackneyed and coy, but the cast (including Lee J. Cobb and Lilli Palmer as Gable's ex-wife) manages to sell it despite shortcomings in the material and the handling. Gable and Palmer were both nominated for Golden Globes, and the picture was nominated for Best Comedy. **1/2 from ****
Everyone Loves Gable!
JLRMovieReviews3 November 2014
Clark Gable is a Broadway producer who feels his age and is ready to retire. Added to it is the fact that his ex, Lilli Palmer, pops in constantly for the alimony and aggravates him. Carroll Baker is his secretary, who's using her job as a stepping stone in her acting career. When she discloses to him, she's been pining for him from the beginning. he jumps on this plot in a way to save a playwright's problems with his play - instead of an old man going after a young girl, switch it. The stars provide charm and a bit of the nostalgic feel for Gable's older films, like "Wife vs. Secretary," with similarities to boot. But the main problem of this film is that it goes on for far too long and is too talky. Barry Coe likes Carroll, but with her interest in Gable, she hardly gives Barry the time of day. With its predictable ending, this should have been much shorter with less talk and definitely less bickering. But not for that, this is a must-see film for Gable fans. You'll just feel wore out by the end.
An Aging Gable 'Fesses Up With Aid From A Charming Palmer
theowinthrop19 November 2004
At the tail end of his film career Clark Gable made a series of movies where his co-stars were not in his age group. Up to 1956 his co-stars might have been younger than him (Lana Turner comes to mind) but more frequently they were still in their late 30s to early 50s like Ava Gardner, Barbara Stanwyck, or Eleanor Parker. Then, at the tail end of the 1950s Gable made four movies where his co-stars were not within fifteen years of his age. These were TEACHER'S PET (with Doris Day), BUT NOT FOR ME (with Carol Baker), IT STARTED IN NAPLES (with Sophia Loren), and THE MISFITS (with Marilyn Monroe). In at least three of these films the co-star was as big a star as Gable. The exception is Baker, a promising actress in the period but one that never hit the same height of stardom as the others (her best recalled film role was HARLOW - ironically she played a great movie star who had fequently appeared opposite the young Gable). But if Baker lacked the magnetism of Day, Loren, or Monroe, her support to Gable is shared by an actress in his own age group again - Lily Palmer. And Palmer does her job very nicely.
In BUT NOT FOR ME Gable's character - a Broadway Producer - revives his career and that of a once prize-winning playwrite (Lee J. Cobb) when he discovers his secretary (Baker) is in love with him, and is trying to keep his latest production (Cobb's recent play) from being discarded as a failure. Baker revitalizes Gable, and makes him think of remarrying. He was once married to his leading stage lady (Palmer) who divorced him because of differences over lifestyle and life choices. Palmer, who oozes grace and charm, wanted a husband who was interested in home life with her. Gable was too into his production and impressario career, as well as enjoying living life to the most publicly fullest. However, as she watches Gable, Baker, and Cobb rework the play and make it work, Palmer slowly sees Gable bending over to make himself seem younger than he is. In fact a running joke in the film is Gable's confusion of his birth date and age, seemingly making it about ten or five years earlier than it is.
But Palmer keeps bringing Gable and Baker back to earth about their age differences. When Gable takes Baker into Central Park for a romantic moment alone on a bench, Palmer shows up, and gleefully remembers how he took her there too...years before. Gable does not appreciate this ("Are you sure it's safe to be alone here at this late hour?", he asks Palmer. "You might get stabbed!"). Eventually Gable sees the light...he and Palmer end up together again at the end, her helping him with his various pills in the closing moments of the film.
The operative word in the film is charm. Not only Palmer in needling Gable back to his senses, but also (surprisingly) Cobb, as he reforms from his hard drinking failure to his sober success. Even Thomas Gomez is funny in this film, playing a character based on Greek movie theatre tycoon Spyros Skouras. Cobb dislikes money men (Gomez is a potential play backer), and tells Gomez so, saying "Who financed Shaw?" "Who financed Shakespeare?" "Who financed Sophocles?" An angry and fed-up Gomez shouts, "I did!" Taken aback, Cobb asks, "You?". "Sure", says Gomez, "And the production flopped. Why do you suppose I left Greece to come here?"
A friendly little film to watch, and possibly a wise one.
In BUT NOT FOR ME Gable's character - a Broadway Producer - revives his career and that of a once prize-winning playwrite (Lee J. Cobb) when he discovers his secretary (Baker) is in love with him, and is trying to keep his latest production (Cobb's recent play) from being discarded as a failure. Baker revitalizes Gable, and makes him think of remarrying. He was once married to his leading stage lady (Palmer) who divorced him because of differences over lifestyle and life choices. Palmer, who oozes grace and charm, wanted a husband who was interested in home life with her. Gable was too into his production and impressario career, as well as enjoying living life to the most publicly fullest. However, as she watches Gable, Baker, and Cobb rework the play and make it work, Palmer slowly sees Gable bending over to make himself seem younger than he is. In fact a running joke in the film is Gable's confusion of his birth date and age, seemingly making it about ten or five years earlier than it is.
But Palmer keeps bringing Gable and Baker back to earth about their age differences. When Gable takes Baker into Central Park for a romantic moment alone on a bench, Palmer shows up, and gleefully remembers how he took her there too...years before. Gable does not appreciate this ("Are you sure it's safe to be alone here at this late hour?", he asks Palmer. "You might get stabbed!"). Eventually Gable sees the light...he and Palmer end up together again at the end, her helping him with his various pills in the closing moments of the film.
The operative word in the film is charm. Not only Palmer in needling Gable back to his senses, but also (surprisingly) Cobb, as he reforms from his hard drinking failure to his sober success. Even Thomas Gomez is funny in this film, playing a character based on Greek movie theatre tycoon Spyros Skouras. Cobb dislikes money men (Gomez is a potential play backer), and tells Gomez so, saying "Who financed Shaw?" "Who financed Shakespeare?" "Who financed Sophocles?" An angry and fed-up Gomez shouts, "I did!" Taken aback, Cobb asks, "You?". "Sure", says Gomez, "And the production flopped. Why do you suppose I left Greece to come here?"
A friendly little film to watch, and possibly a wise one.
They're writing songs of love, but not for me....
jotix10025 July 2009
Warning: Spoilers
A theatrical producer, Russ Ward, is facing a crisis. His last plays have not fared well with the public, and a new project by a well known playwright, who is facing a writing crisis, makes life impossible for Ward. When he thinks everything is lost, he gets an unexpected help by his own secretary, Elly, who on top of that, has loved him silently. Elly has an idea that might help the play, and is an inspiration because she, too, can act.
To complicate matters, Kathryn, Russ's former wife, figures the romance from the younger woman toward her ex-husband, and although they have remained in friendly terms, she does not appear to be happy with their possible union. As the play opens, it becomes a hit, and Gordon, the leading man, who has loved Elly, all along, finds a way to her heart even though she is still thinking about Russ. Everything is resolved at the end when Elly realizes that Gordon really cares for her.
The source of this comedy was a play by Samson Raphaelson, and adapted for the screen by John Mitchell Hayes. The direction is by Walter Lang, a veteran of Hollywood, who had a long career in the industry. The basic flaw with the film was the casting of Carroll Baker, who had made a sensation in Elia Kazan's "Baby Doll". She was terribly miscast as Elly, resulting in a dull reading of her character. On the other hand, Lilli Palmer makes a delicious appearance and almost steal the film, had her role been bigger. Clark Gable is not too convincing as Russ Ward, or Lee J. Cobb, one of the best actors of the American cinema, is also wasted. Charles Lane, and Thomas Gomez have some good moments.
To complicate matters, Kathryn, Russ's former wife, figures the romance from the younger woman toward her ex-husband, and although they have remained in friendly terms, she does not appear to be happy with their possible union. As the play opens, it becomes a hit, and Gordon, the leading man, who has loved Elly, all along, finds a way to her heart even though she is still thinking about Russ. Everything is resolved at the end when Elly realizes that Gordon really cares for her.
The source of this comedy was a play by Samson Raphaelson, and adapted for the screen by John Mitchell Hayes. The direction is by Walter Lang, a veteran of Hollywood, who had a long career in the industry. The basic flaw with the film was the casting of Carroll Baker, who had made a sensation in Elia Kazan's "Baby Doll". She was terribly miscast as Elly, resulting in a dull reading of her character. On the other hand, Lilli Palmer makes a delicious appearance and almost steal the film, had her role been bigger. Clark Gable is not too convincing as Russ Ward, or Lee J. Cobb, one of the best actors of the American cinema, is also wasted. Charles Lane, and Thomas Gomez have some good moments.
While far from a great film, it's got Gable...
planktonrules19 December 2013
For fans of classic Hollywood, a sub-par Clark Gable film is STILL well worth seeing. This is exactly the case for "But Not For Me"--an adequate film made better simply because it stars Gable.
Gable plays Russ Ward--a somewhat vain Broadway producer who is nearing the end of his career. He's low on money, low on successes and high on energy. However, his newest play seems destined to bomb and after talking it over with his accountants, he's decided to can the project and retire. But, when Ward's very young secretary, Ellie (Carol Baker) confesses her love for him, it inspires Ward to incorporate this into the play--and he suddenly reverses himself and decides to produce it.
This is an odd case of real life, a movie and a play all getting intermingled. While some might complain about the aging Gable starring with a very young lady, this works for me because the film is all about the difficulties of such a romance. Decent acting and the wonderful supporting work by Lee J. Cobb make this one worth seeing even with its shortcomings.
Gable plays Russ Ward--a somewhat vain Broadway producer who is nearing the end of his career. He's low on money, low on successes and high on energy. However, his newest play seems destined to bomb and after talking it over with his accountants, he's decided to can the project and retire. But, when Ward's very young secretary, Ellie (Carol Baker) confesses her love for him, it inspires Ward to incorporate this into the play--and he suddenly reverses himself and decides to produce it.
This is an odd case of real life, a movie and a play all getting intermingled. While some might complain about the aging Gable starring with a very young lady, this works for me because the film is all about the difficulties of such a romance. Decent acting and the wonderful supporting work by Lee J. Cobb make this one worth seeing even with its shortcomings.
A disappointing fiasco
vincentlynch-moonoi15 October 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I'm quite an admirer of Clark Gable, particularly in his later films. Last night I watched "Gone With The Wind" for about the 30th time, and just marveled at his performance.
This film is one of the few Gable films I had never seen...and as far as I'm concerned, a great disappointment.
It's supposed to be a light romantic comedy, but I found it depressing and slightly vulgar. Oddly enough, the movie is about producing a play, and had they followed the script of the play more, it might have worked...as a serious film.
The three primaries here are Clark Gable (who is supposed to be old, and certainly acts it; he plays a Boradway producer); Carroll Baker (as the young woman attracted to the older man; too bad...I was just beginning to enjoy her films); Lilli Palmer (as the ex and future wife of Gable; do we really like plotting women?); and then there's the added attraction of Lee J. Cobb in what must have been a disappointing role as a playwright..
My recommendation is to skip this one and skip right to "It Started In Naples" or "Teacher's Pet".
This film is one of the few Gable films I had never seen...and as far as I'm concerned, a great disappointment.
It's supposed to be a light romantic comedy, but I found it depressing and slightly vulgar. Oddly enough, the movie is about producing a play, and had they followed the script of the play more, it might have worked...as a serious film.
The three primaries here are Clark Gable (who is supposed to be old, and certainly acts it; he plays a Boradway producer); Carroll Baker (as the young woman attracted to the older man; too bad...I was just beginning to enjoy her films); Lilli Palmer (as the ex and future wife of Gable; do we really like plotting women?); and then there's the added attraction of Lee J. Cobb in what must have been a disappointing role as a playwright..
My recommendation is to skip this one and skip right to "It Started In Naples" or "Teacher's Pet".
You saw the title. Someone is asking for trouble!
JohnHowardReid14 November 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Not one of Clark Gable's best career choices, as the movie actually goes out of its way to draw our attention to Gable's age and his suitability or unsuitability to marry a younger woman. The problem is that Gable himself actually looks about fifteen years older than his on-screen character's age, so that we already know the conclusion before the question is even asked! And the film's title, of course, is a dead give-away as well! Another problem is that in addition to its slight plot, the film is on the talkative side. Fortunately, production values are good and Gable's support cast is first rate, with Lilli Palmer really excelling herself in a made-to-order role. Walter Lang's direction, however, is completely undistinguished, aside, of course, from his trade mark opening. Lang always like to begin his films with a shot of a geographical skyline - and "But Not For Me" is no exception to the rule!
The cast does wonders with the featherweight idea
jjnxn-18 December 2013
Charmer finds Gable at near the end of his career still fully in command of his star power as a somewhat roguish producer who is juggling both personal and professional issues.
Lilli Palmer is an excellent match for him, her continental charm playing off his brusk exasperation with surprising ease. She's so good it's a shame her role is rather small but she makes every moment she's on screen memorable and you miss her when she's out of the picture.
Lee J. Cobb likewise makes his modest role seem more than it is by filling it with his magnetic presence.
Carroll is sexy in a refined way, this was before she cast her lot in the sex symbol derby with junk like Harlow and The Carpetbaggers and wrecked her reputation as a serious actress for several years until she came back as a respected character actress.
The kind of breezy star vehicle that is rarely if ever made today, spotlighting the star but loaded with talent in almost every role. Competently directed and as an added bonus Ella Fitzgerald sings the title tune over the credits. For Gable fans this is a must!
Lilli Palmer is an excellent match for him, her continental charm playing off his brusk exasperation with surprising ease. She's so good it's a shame her role is rather small but she makes every moment she's on screen memorable and you miss her when she's out of the picture.
Lee J. Cobb likewise makes his modest role seem more than it is by filling it with his magnetic presence.
Carroll is sexy in a refined way, this was before she cast her lot in the sex symbol derby with junk like Harlow and The Carpetbaggers and wrecked her reputation as a serious actress for several years until she came back as a respected character actress.
The kind of breezy star vehicle that is rarely if ever made today, spotlighting the star but loaded with talent in almost every role. Competently directed and as an added bonus Ella Fitzgerald sings the title tune over the credits. For Gable fans this is a must!
not very good
kyle_furr13 February 2004
A poor attempt at comedy. The plot has Gable as an over the hill producer who is about to quit when he has a new idea for a play that came from his secretary, who is in love with him, even though she is 22 and he is past 50. There still is more to the plot, but who cares, it's not in the least bit funny and Gable does a pretty poor job. Lee J. Cobb is the only one who is good in here and there's not much else to say about it.
Aged Broadway Vehicle Reclaimed for Gable.
bkoganbing5 July 2006
But Not For Me is one of the weakest of Clark Gable's later films. It is based on a 1935 Broadway play, Accent on Youth by Samson Raphaelson, the same guy who wrote The Jazz Singer.
The plot revolves around a fifty something Broadway producer who gets his batteries recharged when his secretary, Carroll Baker, confesses her love for him. That would do something for just about anyone's mojo and pretty soon they're involved.
Her confession also sparks an idea in Gable for a reworking of a play that he and writer Lee J. Cobb are trying to get produced. Baker goes from secretary to star. Of course her co-star in the play, Barry Coe, is not happy with Baker and Gable as an item as he would like to be the item with Baker.
Possibly in 1935 the May/December romance bit was naughty, but in 1959 it was pretty old hat by then. Fellow stars Tyrone Power and Bing Crosby both married women considerably younger than themselves during that decade. Gable's fifth and last wife was about 17 years younger than him. And today with the latest tabloid fodder being Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, But Not For Me is really tame stuff.
The best performance in the film is from Lilli Palmer as Gable's ex-wife who would like to win him back. Oddly enough she was living some of that same drama in real life. A little earlier in the decade Palmer split from her husband Rex Harrison who married Kay Kendall.
According to her memoirs, Palmer agreed to the divorce because Harrison told her Kendall was dying and she did pass away of leukemia within a couple of years of their marriage. Palmer said Harrison would remarry her after Kendall died, but Harrison doublecrossed her.
If you're interested in seeing how things worked out for Lilli Palmer than by all means see this film. Otherwise it really is for hardcore Clark Gable fans.
The plot revolves around a fifty something Broadway producer who gets his batteries recharged when his secretary, Carroll Baker, confesses her love for him. That would do something for just about anyone's mojo and pretty soon they're involved.
Her confession also sparks an idea in Gable for a reworking of a play that he and writer Lee J. Cobb are trying to get produced. Baker goes from secretary to star. Of course her co-star in the play, Barry Coe, is not happy with Baker and Gable as an item as he would like to be the item with Baker.
Possibly in 1935 the May/December romance bit was naughty, but in 1959 it was pretty old hat by then. Fellow stars Tyrone Power and Bing Crosby both married women considerably younger than themselves during that decade. Gable's fifth and last wife was about 17 years younger than him. And today with the latest tabloid fodder being Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, But Not For Me is really tame stuff.
The best performance in the film is from Lilli Palmer as Gable's ex-wife who would like to win him back. Oddly enough she was living some of that same drama in real life. A little earlier in the decade Palmer split from her husband Rex Harrison who married Kay Kendall.
According to her memoirs, Palmer agreed to the divorce because Harrison told her Kendall was dying and she did pass away of leukemia within a couple of years of their marriage. Palmer said Harrison would remarry her after Kendall died, but Harrison doublecrossed her.
If you're interested in seeing how things worked out for Lilli Palmer than by all means see this film. Otherwise it really is for hardcore Clark Gable fans.
Aging theatrical producer hopes a fling with his young secretary will recapture the glory days of youthful romance.
lowenahouse10 July 2008
Along with "Teacher's Pet," "But Not For Me" is a topnotch showcase for Gable's talent for deft self-deprecation. Following heroic service in World War II (for which he was decorated), and the tragedy of wife Carole Lombard's death while entertaining with a USO troupe, he has matured as both a person and an actor. The personality remains appealing, unique even, but he is now a former superstar charmingly twitting his image as mega-heartthrob in decades of earlier film roles. Lilli Palmer plays his ironic and amused ex-wife in this sophisticated, intelligent romance. It's light comedy but (as with Powell & Loy's "The Thin Man") good writing and masterly acting elevate froth to satisfying entertainment.
....nor me either
rupie3 July 2000
Warning: Spoilers
(Possible spoiler) A disappointing movie. The romantic relationship between Ward/ Gable and Brown/Baker is never really believable, due as much to the script as to the performances. Also, watching Gable closely in this flick it is hard for me to understand his near-legendary status as an actor ; although he projects a certain insouciant charm, his style is very mannered and artificial, the very antithesis of Method. Having someone like Claudette Colbert to play against, as in "It Happened One Night", helps him, but the presence of the truly awful Carrol Baker as his inamorata only brings out the worst in both of them. The best performances in the movie are unquestionably those of the second-billers - Lee J. Cobb as the has-been playwright and Lilli Palmer as Ward's ex. The running theme of Gable/Ward dealing with his advancing years - the alarm clock for his pills, the way his age keeps changing each time he announces it - is entertainingly done. And let's face it, you just knew from the start he was going to get back with Kathyryn/Lilli, didn't you??? (An interesting insight into the change in social mores in forty years is provided by Gable/Ward's observation that it was illegal for an unmarried couple to book a single cabin on a liner)
even an older Gable should still get the girl
jimakros9 October 2022
This is a remake of "accent on youth". In the original Sylvia Sidney falls for Herbert Marshall. Sidney was a tremendous actress who makes it perfectly believable,this one stars Caroll Baker a very limited actress who cant fill the shoes of this role. To make things worse they changed the ending and make it a pointless story about an older man who believes he is too old to accept the affections of his young secretary. Nobody wants to see Clark Gable say and act like he is too old. In fact his age didnt make any difference in his next movie where he romances Sophia Loren. I can understand why people hated this flick.
Unexceptional but enjoyable little film
rick_79 April 2003
A decent cast and intermittently witty script make up for the drab direction in this somewhat hackneyed backstage drama. But Not For Me is a perfect example of a "rainy-day film" - pleasant, undemanding entertainment with good stars and a happy ending. Gable looks worn-out in one of his final roles, but Lee J. Cobb is fine as a world-weary but good-hearted sourpuss writer - cast nicely against type. Baker is pleasant in a role requiring less dramatic range than in Giant (where she ate much of the scenery), while Lili Palmer is agreeable in support. Worth a look, but unlikely to grace one's Top 10 lists.
Two-and-a-half out of four, with an extra half for the lovely slice of cake I had with it.
Two-and-a-half out of four, with an extra half for the lovely slice of cake I had with it.
Leading star's charm is where it's at.
mark.waltz9 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
He might have been nearing the end of his career, but Clark Gable still had it, even though I didn't think it was with leading lady Carroll Baker. The third version of the play "Accent on Youth" seems to have a wider age gap between the leads, Gable as an aging Broadway producer and Baker as his long time secretary who out of the blue declared her love for him. He's dealing with a similarly themed play, and Baker agrees to help him with it to make it seem real, and when she acts it out utilizing her own emotions, she's offered the lead. Ex-wife Lilli Palmer is behind the scenes playing matchmaker along with others on his staff and this leads to further complications.
I didn't see a point of the title outside the opportunity to have Ella Fitzgerald singing it (beautifully) over the credits. Still, it's a well written update even if Baker's character doesn't seem to know the difference between a crush and love. Just because it's on the page doesn't always make it true. Having recently had younger leading ladies like Jane Russell, Yvonne de Carlo and Doris Day, Gable's stuck in a pattern, and fortunately this one loosened it. A nice supporting cast includes the two Charles (Lane and Cane!), Thomas Gomez and Lee J. Cobb, but the lack of color seems to defuse the impact. Clark however does make an impact, and is definitely still the king. Palmer is a delight, too, and serves in creating a character that's noble, strong, determined and certainly likeable.
I didn't see a point of the title outside the opportunity to have Ella Fitzgerald singing it (beautifully) over the credits. Still, it's a well written update even if Baker's character doesn't seem to know the difference between a crush and love. Just because it's on the page doesn't always make it true. Having recently had younger leading ladies like Jane Russell, Yvonne de Carlo and Doris Day, Gable's stuck in a pattern, and fortunately this one loosened it. A nice supporting cast includes the two Charles (Lane and Cane!), Thomas Gomez and Lee J. Cobb, but the lack of color seems to defuse the impact. Clark however does make an impact, and is definitely still the king. Palmer is a delight, too, and serves in creating a character that's noble, strong, determined and certainly likeable.
Late Gable film is a good spoof and look at Broadway
SimonJack12 January 2019
"But Not for Me" is one of the last films that Clark Gable made. The "king of Hollywood" had made some of the best comedy and drama romances of the first three decades of sound movies. He died at age 59 of a heart attack in 1960.
Gable shows his age in this film, and it's even a part of the comedy. The plot is familiar - a washed up Broadway producer makes a go at one last hit. But this story has more to it. Gable's Russ Ward isn't yet washed up. He's just aging and needs another hit to be able to maintain his high living standards. And that last is a very interesting piece of the story that gives this film some historical value as well.
The film is based on a 1934 play, "Accent on Youth," written by Samson Raphaelson. It was a smash hit on both Broadway, where it opened on Christmas day, and in London's West End where Greer Garson played the female lead. It was first made into a movie with its original title in 1935. Herbert Marshall and Sylvia Sidney starred. Bing Crosby starred in a musical comedy version in 1950, "Mr. Music." But this is by far the best version. It's both, very funny and warm-hearted. It got three Golden Globe nominations in 1960.
This is one of the best films that shows the politics and propaganda of Broadway. It touches on the writing and developing of plays, on audience trial runs and critics, and on the promotion and manipulation of the press. In a nutshell, it's about promoters, as Ward calls himself. And, it has more than a little spoofing of the field with some soft satire.
The film has a dynamite cast with other actors who lend a lot to the story. Lili Palmer is especially good as Kathryn Ward, Russ's ex-wife who still is his biggest fan. Lee J. Cobb is the hard-drinking Jeremiah MacDonald, a once great playwright whom Russ won't give up on. Carroll Baker has a good role, as do a number of others.
While this isn't a comedy of large belly laughs, it is loaded with clever quips and witty remarks. The funny lines are non-stop in this warm, feel-good comedy romance that provides a good peek at some of the shenanigans behind Broadway plays.
Here are some favorite lines. For more dialog, see the Quotes section under this IMDb Web page of the movie.
Russ Ward, "The public makes the stars. I only make the opportunity." Roy Morton, "Corny, but quotable."
Russ Ward, "Does that wrap it up, Roy, or do you need some more?" Roy Morton, "Well, if I do, suppose I just invent it?" Russ Ward, "Isn't that what you usually do anyway?"
Al Atwood, "The money you spent gambling this year'd support all the people in Schenectady for one week." Russ Ward, "A man's allowed one vice." Al Atwood, "But the way you do it, it's not a vice. It's a felony."
Demetrios Bacos, "They tell me you play tennis, golf, ride horseback. Maybe you come see my heart specialist?" Russ Ward, "I've seen him. He looks terrible."
Russ Ward, "You shouldn't be in any trouble, Demetrios, with all those movies you sold to television." Demetrios Bacos, "For peanuts. I sold out to the enemy."
After the maid carries a large birthday cake with many lit candles and sets it on the table in front of Russ, Kathryn Ward says, "I didn't tell anyone, darling, because I know you wouldn't want to embarrass them into bringing expensive gifts." Jeremiah MacDonald, "Looks like the Chicago fire." Ellie Brown looks quizzically at all the candles, and Demetrios Bacos says, "There must be a hundred candles on it." Kathryn Ward, "Now, Demi, don't be ridiculous. There are only 51." Looking at Russ, she says, "Sorry, dear, that's all we had."
Russ Ward, "Do you remember? There's a curfew in Central Park for unescorted women." Kathryn Ward, "How many first night mornings we spent here, Russ and I, holding hands and sitting on our reviews so we'd be on top of the world." Russ Ward, "Do you think it's safe being out here alone? You might easily get stabbed."
Russ Ward, "It's been a long time since I kissed you, but..." Kathryn Ward, "Now don't start getting sentimental. I'm just here protecting my alimony."
Ellie Brown, "I thought I was heading for a two-day honeymoon. But instead, he was going all the way back to his hometown - Butte, Montana. He was kidnapping me, now... today. I want an annulment." Russ Ward, "Well, unfortunately, Butte, Montana is not grounds for annulment... yet."
Two mounted policemen are outside the Broadway theater as the patrons leave on the opening night of Russ Ward's new show. The first policeman says, "Well, I'm afraid it sounds like a hit." The second policeman pats his horse's neck and says, "Yeah, another winter out here - every night. Sorry old-timer. Well, let's go."
Gable shows his age in this film, and it's even a part of the comedy. The plot is familiar - a washed up Broadway producer makes a go at one last hit. But this story has more to it. Gable's Russ Ward isn't yet washed up. He's just aging and needs another hit to be able to maintain his high living standards. And that last is a very interesting piece of the story that gives this film some historical value as well.
The film is based on a 1934 play, "Accent on Youth," written by Samson Raphaelson. It was a smash hit on both Broadway, where it opened on Christmas day, and in London's West End where Greer Garson played the female lead. It was first made into a movie with its original title in 1935. Herbert Marshall and Sylvia Sidney starred. Bing Crosby starred in a musical comedy version in 1950, "Mr. Music." But this is by far the best version. It's both, very funny and warm-hearted. It got three Golden Globe nominations in 1960.
This is one of the best films that shows the politics and propaganda of Broadway. It touches on the writing and developing of plays, on audience trial runs and critics, and on the promotion and manipulation of the press. In a nutshell, it's about promoters, as Ward calls himself. And, it has more than a little spoofing of the field with some soft satire.
The film has a dynamite cast with other actors who lend a lot to the story. Lili Palmer is especially good as Kathryn Ward, Russ's ex-wife who still is his biggest fan. Lee J. Cobb is the hard-drinking Jeremiah MacDonald, a once great playwright whom Russ won't give up on. Carroll Baker has a good role, as do a number of others.
While this isn't a comedy of large belly laughs, it is loaded with clever quips and witty remarks. The funny lines are non-stop in this warm, feel-good comedy romance that provides a good peek at some of the shenanigans behind Broadway plays.
Here are some favorite lines. For more dialog, see the Quotes section under this IMDb Web page of the movie.
Russ Ward, "The public makes the stars. I only make the opportunity." Roy Morton, "Corny, but quotable."
Russ Ward, "Does that wrap it up, Roy, or do you need some more?" Roy Morton, "Well, if I do, suppose I just invent it?" Russ Ward, "Isn't that what you usually do anyway?"
Al Atwood, "The money you spent gambling this year'd support all the people in Schenectady for one week." Russ Ward, "A man's allowed one vice." Al Atwood, "But the way you do it, it's not a vice. It's a felony."
Demetrios Bacos, "They tell me you play tennis, golf, ride horseback. Maybe you come see my heart specialist?" Russ Ward, "I've seen him. He looks terrible."
Russ Ward, "You shouldn't be in any trouble, Demetrios, with all those movies you sold to television." Demetrios Bacos, "For peanuts. I sold out to the enemy."
After the maid carries a large birthday cake with many lit candles and sets it on the table in front of Russ, Kathryn Ward says, "I didn't tell anyone, darling, because I know you wouldn't want to embarrass them into bringing expensive gifts." Jeremiah MacDonald, "Looks like the Chicago fire." Ellie Brown looks quizzically at all the candles, and Demetrios Bacos says, "There must be a hundred candles on it." Kathryn Ward, "Now, Demi, don't be ridiculous. There are only 51." Looking at Russ, she says, "Sorry, dear, that's all we had."
Russ Ward, "Do you remember? There's a curfew in Central Park for unescorted women." Kathryn Ward, "How many first night mornings we spent here, Russ and I, holding hands and sitting on our reviews so we'd be on top of the world." Russ Ward, "Do you think it's safe being out here alone? You might easily get stabbed."
Russ Ward, "It's been a long time since I kissed you, but..." Kathryn Ward, "Now don't start getting sentimental. I'm just here protecting my alimony."
Ellie Brown, "I thought I was heading for a two-day honeymoon. But instead, he was going all the way back to his hometown - Butte, Montana. He was kidnapping me, now... today. I want an annulment." Russ Ward, "Well, unfortunately, Butte, Montana is not grounds for annulment... yet."
Two mounted policemen are outside the Broadway theater as the patrons leave on the opening night of Russ Ward's new show. The first policeman says, "Well, I'm afraid it sounds like a hit." The second policeman pats his horse's neck and says, "Yeah, another winter out here - every night. Sorry old-timer. Well, let's go."
May-December meanderings
marcslope5 December 2000
One of those bubbly late-'50s romantic comedies that thinks it's cleverer than it is and seems terribly pleased with itself. The actors grit their teeth and play the familiar froth as if it were Moliere, and you admire them for trying. Gable is Gable, unforced and likeable but not a natural comedian, and Palmer gives her bitchy character a warmth not found in the dialogue. The movie's main asset is the handsome black-and-white photography of midtown Manhattan (I'd like to have seen more marquees), and the nostalgic ambience of that long-ago era when theater was actually a topic of discourse among the general population.
One of Gable's Last Vehicles
August199111 May 2004
One noteworthy thing about this movie is the use of music. Both the title song "But Not For Me" (also used in 'Four Weddings and a Funeral') and "You Make Feel So Young" pop up at various moments to good effect. Both songs date from the 1940s.
Any film with Lee J. Cobb is good according to me. And no one can fill out a tux like Gable. There's even a Joi Lansing walk through.
This film is somehow a B & W, 1950s version of 'Something's Gotta Give' - aging leading man and the Lili Palmer/Diane Keaton character. There's even a Long Island connection. If that sounds like an attractive idea, then it's worth a peek. Otherwise, the whole exercise will appear impressively dated.
Any film with Lee J. Cobb is good according to me. And no one can fill out a tux like Gable. There's even a Joi Lansing walk through.
This film is somehow a B & W, 1950s version of 'Something's Gotta Give' - aging leading man and the Lili Palmer/Diane Keaton character. There's even a Long Island connection. If that sounds like an attractive idea, then it's worth a peek. Otherwise, the whole exercise will appear impressively dated.
Clark Gable Still Delivers
soranno5 November 2002
In one of his last films, Clark Gable portrays an entertainment executive who decides to regain lost youth by having a love affair with his young secretary (Carroll Baker). The film has its flaws and it's certainly no "Gone With The Wind" but Gable still manages to give an excellent performance here.
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