Cast
View AllJoan Carroll
as Bridget Potter
Edmond O'Brien
as 'Red' Reddy, aka Professor Stanley
Ruth Warrick
as Linda Norton
Eve Arden
as 'Space' OShea, aka Suwanee Rivers
Robert Smith
as Charles 'Charlie' Baker
Franklin Pangborn
as Professor Gibney
Marjorie Gateson
as Mira Potter
John Miljan
as George Potter
George Cleveland
as Clarence, manager of Lake Mohawk Lodge
Luis Alberni
as Riccardi
Charles Lane
as Private Detective Smith
Fortunio Bonanova
as Chef
Andrew Tombes
as First Train Conductor
Almira Sessions
as Maid at Lake Mohawk Lodge
Pierre Watkin
as John Markham
Crew
Director
- Richard Wallace
Producer
- Howard Benedict
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Obliging Young Lady represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Richard Wallace brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1942, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Obliging Young Lady took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1942, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Obliging Young Lady shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Slacker, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Obliging Young Lady subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mariage chez les Bodin's and Shadowlands explore similar territory, Obliging Young Lady stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 1, 1942
- Runtime: 1h 20m