I enjoyed this film, but that's not to say it's a perfect movie. The first problem is that it's one of those stories where a couple is feuding, and rather than simply talking things out, one or both sets up all sorts of clever manipulations to bring things to the conclusion he or she prefers. Okay, but there is such a thing as taking the concept too far. The other problem is that one of the lead supporting actors -- Robert Benchley -- isn't very humorous in this film...which is odd...that's his trade.
But, Loretta Young is quite appealing (and beautiful) here as the stage actress who wants to retire, and Frederick March is quite good here as the husband and playwright who wants to continue working. I think the comedy works, in part, because bother actors are more dramatic actors than comedy actors. Of course, the legal aspect of Reno divorces may confound people nowadays, and understanding divorce in that era is key to appreciating the film.
While Young and March did very nicely, the supporting actors were not as appealing here. As mentioned, Robert Benchley, a true wit, wasn't very funny here at all. Allyn Joslyn, usually a very funny character actor (and here the "other man" seemed a bit too frantic here, and a chance for a great scene was missed when you only heard about him being arrested at what I assume was a house of ill repute, rather than saw him being arrested; it could have been very funny. Eve Arden also seemed a bit out of place here.
But, don't get me wrong. This is a very watchable film, and it's worth your time to enjoy two fine actors who move toward a somewhat predictable ending.
But, Loretta Young is quite appealing (and beautiful) here as the stage actress who wants to retire, and Frederick March is quite good here as the husband and playwright who wants to continue working. I think the comedy works, in part, because bother actors are more dramatic actors than comedy actors. Of course, the legal aspect of Reno divorces may confound people nowadays, and understanding divorce in that era is key to appreciating the film.
While Young and March did very nicely, the supporting actors were not as appealing here. As mentioned, Robert Benchley, a true wit, wasn't very funny here at all. Allyn Joslyn, usually a very funny character actor (and here the "other man" seemed a bit too frantic here, and a chance for a great scene was missed when you only heard about him being arrested at what I assume was a house of ill repute, rather than saw him being arrested; it could have been very funny. Eve Arden also seemed a bit out of place here.
But, don't get me wrong. This is a very watchable film, and it's worth your time to enjoy two fine actors who move toward a somewhat predictable ending.