Among character actors, Frank Morgan was something special. Truly unique, and he gets to show off his talents in this B picture. Part of the problem that Morgan had with MGM at this time was that he was tossed back and forth between first rate A pictures (such as "The Wizard Of Oz"), and B pictures, such as this one. And the problem with his B pictures is what made them B pictures -- second rate scripts. However, this one has a somewhat sentimental script that isn't too bad.
When it comes to character actors, this film has its share of them, and you;ll recognize many of them. Billie Burke -- who can be a bit much to take, is okay here as the owner of a boarding house. Donald Meek, a wonderful character actor in his own right, is here in what may be his most unlikable role; and indeed, I didn't like him here (and hated his toupee). Marjorie Main is usually a lot of fun, but I didn't care for her much here; what was missing was the likable side of Main. Bonita Granville plays a most unlikable child. The liable Dan Dailey is here as a love interest to Morgan's daughter; he does nicely (although exactly what his role is, is a bit confusing). Walter Catlett and a very young Phil Silvers are along for the ride, too.
At this time, Frank Morgan was too good for B pictures, but too old for leading roles in A pictures. But here,, despite being a B picture, you get to see Morgan at his best. Sentimental and funny. Well worth watching for his acting, if not much else.
When it comes to character actors, this film has its share of them, and you;ll recognize many of them. Billie Burke -- who can be a bit much to take, is okay here as the owner of a boarding house. Donald Meek, a wonderful character actor in his own right, is here in what may be his most unlikable role; and indeed, I didn't like him here (and hated his toupee). Marjorie Main is usually a lot of fun, but I didn't care for her much here; what was missing was the likable side of Main. Bonita Granville plays a most unlikable child. The liable Dan Dailey is here as a love interest to Morgan's daughter; he does nicely (although exactly what his role is, is a bit confusing). Walter Catlett and a very young Phil Silvers are along for the ride, too.
At this time, Frank Morgan was too good for B pictures, but too old for leading roles in A pictures. But here,, despite being a B picture, you get to see Morgan at his best. Sentimental and funny. Well worth watching for his acting, if not much else.