Cast
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Doris Day
as Kate Mackay
David Niven
as Larry Mackay
Janis Paige
as Deborah Vaughn
Spring Byington
as Suzie Robinson
Richard Haydn
as Alfred North
Patsy Kelly
as Maggie
Jack Weston
as Joe Positano
John Harding
as Norman McQuarry
Margaret Lindsay
as Mona James
Carmen Phillips
as Mary Smith
Mary Patton
as Mrs. Hunter
Charles Herbert
as David Mackay
Stanley Livingston
as Gabriel Mackay
Flip Mark
as George Mackay
Baby Gellert
as Adam Mackay
Crew
Director
- Charles Walters
Producer
- Joe Pasternak
- Martin Melcher
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Please Don't Eat the Daisies represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family/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 Charles Walters 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 1960, 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 Please Don't Eat the Daisies took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.8 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1960, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Please Don't Eat the Daisies shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Guy Thing, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Please Don't Eat the Daisies offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Phantom of the Opera and Mannequin explore similar territory, Please Don't Eat the Daisies stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: March 31, 1960
- Runtime: 1h 52m
- Budget: $1,775,000
- Revenue: $5,150,000
