It is interesting that this film is not better written, having been based on the work of two of the most acclaimed writers of the day, S.J. Perelman and Ogden Nash. Fans of romantic farce seem to find this movie quite satisfying. To me it is more an exercise in watching Hollywood's star-maker machinery at work on Ava Gardner, starring as a statue of Venus, goddess of love in Roman mythology, come to life. Robert Walker is quite likeable as the fluff-brained window dresser who breathes life into Venus with a kiss. Eve Arden quips her way through the film with her usual aplomb. And the fascinating Olga San Juan is perfectly cast as Walker's jealous girlfriend; she and Dick Haymes seem to be the only two cast members who can actually sing. With music by Kurt Weill and lyrics by Nash, it is unfortunate that there are only three musical numbers in the entire movie, and only one is truly memorable, namely "Speak Low," but Ava Gardner is obviously dubbed as she sings it.
Review of One Touch of Venus
