6/10
Remade a million times, still fun
28 November 2021
Darryl F. Zanuck used to take half of one film and half of another and make a new movie. Hard to say how many times three women looking for millionaire husbands was remade. Moon Over Miami, Three Little Girls in Blue, Three Coins in a Fountain etc. Etc. Etc.

This film from 1938 stars Loretta Young, Joel McCrea, David Niven, Stuart Erwin, Marjorie Weaver, Pauline Moore, Binnie Barnes, and Jane Darwell.

Pamela, Moira, and Elizabeth Charters inherit a total of $5800 from an aunt, the equivalent of $113,000 today. In preparation for this inheritance, Pamela (Young) practices being the grand dame, while Marjorie practices being a maid, and Elizabeth a secretary/companion.

Money in hand, they leave the chicken farm and head for California, where Pamela wearing a splendid wardrobe sets up housekeeping in an expensive hotel. It's probably based on the Bevery Hills Hotel, since they're staying in a bungalow.

Pamela meets two well-heeled gentlemen immediately, and they both are crazy about her - Van Dam Smith (McCrea) and Steve Harrington (Niven) escort her everywhere, each scheming to be alone with her. Moira meantime is flirting with one of the employees (Erwin).

Out of money, it's time for Pamela to press the point with Van Dam. Things don't work out as planned.

The performances are all very good, with Binnie Barnes a standout as Niven's eccentric and earthy sister. Young, eye-poppingly beautiful, wears a stunning assortment of gowns.

Charming and fun film. Even if you have seen it a dozen times. The cast is wonderful.
3 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed