Remarkable, engrossing 50s melodrama. The story is a simple one; Sinatra plays a G.I. returning home after many years' absence, during which time he's written a few unsuccessful novels and acquired a talent for gambling and drinking. Although he's brought a girl with him (MacLaine, overacting as usual) who adores him, he takes up with the local professor's daughter (Hyer), who believes in his talent and ability but doubts he can stop drinking and sleeping around. Martin is an affable presence as his friend who involves him in his gambling business.
Extraordinary direction of actors, a somewhat tired script being pushed past the point of believability often enough but carefully emotionally anchored by Minnelli's hand. Nice color photography.
Extraordinary direction of actors, a somewhat tired script being pushed past the point of believability often enough but carefully emotionally anchored by Minnelli's hand. Nice color photography.