I have always adored Ruth Gordon, and I can truly imagine how she must have been in her youth after watching this film. I never even knew she wrote or did any screenplays before reading these reviews, and will definitely have to investigate further. For those who wrote harsh reviews; although I can understand how her character might have seemed shrill, I really could see the real Ruth Gordon being that "over the top" dramatic, fanciful and determined. I definitely see this as a tribute to her father - portraying how gruff he was throughout only made his contribution to her career in the end more poignant. Spencer Tracy was in great form! I believed his salty character as her father. It may not be for everyone, but I really enjoyed this film.