I would rate this as the best film that Cary Grant acted in and though he and Irene Dunne were known mostly for their bedroom farces this film showed them differently. Both artistes are at their best amply supported by Beulah Bondi and Edgar Buchanan. The storyline is way ahead of its period as the issue of adoption is more relevant amongst childless couples today. Irene Dunne without any dialogue emotes superbly and the scene where she gazes at the picture of a chubby baby needs no voice as her face says it all. Cary Grant shows his histrionic talents as the carefree husband who is not very interested in a baby but is prepared to adopt to please his wife. He later transforms into the doting father after the arrival of Baby Tina insomuch that the daughter becomes his most prized possession. I can empathise with this character as before my son was born I had the same disposition which changed after his arrival.The scene where Cary pleads his case with the Judge for possession of Tina can bring a lump to any cynical throat. Edgar Buchanan offers superb support as the all endearing bosom pal who suffers the trails and travails of the couple. The scene where he shows the foster parents in detail on how to wash the baby is a classic which I don't think has been repeated in any film since. Beulah Bondi gives a convincing performance as the Social Worker and the scene where she reads the letter sent by Irene Dunne informing her of the rift between her husband is particularly a stands out. The recounting of the story in flashbacks accompanied by gramaphone records is also unique and never dreary. A must see and my vote for inclusion in the list of the top 100 movies of the century.
Review of Penny Serenade
