"Easy to Wed" is a remake of "Libeled Lady," with Spencer Tracy, Jean Harlow, William Powell, and Myrna Loy. You don't have to know that. But, it helps to know that, when one is wondering why this Esther Williams movie doesn't make Esther center stage. As a matter of fact, despite the lead actor of Van Johnson, this breezy comedy, which is pleasant enough, but rather long, relies on Keenan Wynn and Lucille Ball to keep the ball rolling. They are the ones throwing their weight around. Esther Williams looks great as usual, but Lucy's not-so-soft-spoken character and constant wardrobe changes into flowing and colorful outfits outdoes her, as Esther quietly looks on. And, as much as I like Van Johnson, he's not given much to do and for that matter he seems a bit disinterested. The plot revolves around getting a libel suit against a newspaper dropped. Actually, the best part comes after Esther finally warms up to Van and even Lucy is spellbound by his charms. This is not Esther at her wettest, and this is no classic, like the original. So enjoy and don't expect too much; just sit back and take it easy.
Review of Easy to Wed
