Scolding reviewers who go on and on urging you to "see the original" and "this is a bad remake" are ponderous and not too bright, in my opinion. I can separate performances and stories in my mind without any trouble whatsoever. This is a fun movie with lots of clever scenes and great interplay between Tierney and Power, who clearly had personal affection for one another. The supporting cast does a good job of getting out of the way and letting Gene and Tyrone shine. Chill Wills is great as a crooked judge and has many funny one-liners. Its fun and enjoyable! The scenery, whether in Sun Valley or New York is realistic and a history lesson in 40's era lifestyles. I mean, its Gene Tierney and Tyrone Power, for crying out loud! They aren't making movie stars like those two anymore, are they? Enjoy!
20 Reviews
What It's Like To Be Paparazzi Fodder
bkoganbing21 June 2008
Warning: Spoilers
That Wonderful Urge turned out to be Tyrone Power's last film in the comedy vein. It's a pity that Darryl Zanuck couldn't waste a little money on an original story.
If you think you've seen this film before with Power, you have. This is a remake of his film Love Is News that he did with Loretta Young back in 1936. Back then films about ditzy heiresses that the Depression era public could laugh it were in vogue. In 1948 this was very old fashioned.
Still it's quite humorous as heiress Gene Tierney who is sick tired of all the bad publicity she gets, especially from Power who seems to be making a career of writing about her foibles, turns the tables on him. Tierney announces to one and all that she's engaged to be married to none other than reporter Power. Now he becomes paparazzi fodder and the tables get turned.
Power's not without resources and he finds ways to make the pretend marriage both work and be annoying to Tierney. But I don't think I have to tell you where this will all end.
As I said in the review of Love Is News, our fascination with heiresses from Barbara Hutton to Paris Hilton seems endless. But it all gets a bit hollow because if Tierney didn't want publicity, believe me she wouldn't get it. There are a lot of rich people out there whose lives never become tabloid stories.
Still it's amusing and in the supporting cast judges Chill Wills and Gene Lockhart come out the best. In fact Lockhart seems to be continuing his role as a judge from that other 20th Century Fox classic, Miracle on 34th Street.
That Wonderful Urge is a dated comedy that today's audiences will still get laughs from. We do love our ditzy heiresses.
If you think you've seen this film before with Power, you have. This is a remake of his film Love Is News that he did with Loretta Young back in 1936. Back then films about ditzy heiresses that the Depression era public could laugh it were in vogue. In 1948 this was very old fashioned.
Still it's quite humorous as heiress Gene Tierney who is sick tired of all the bad publicity she gets, especially from Power who seems to be making a career of writing about her foibles, turns the tables on him. Tierney announces to one and all that she's engaged to be married to none other than reporter Power. Now he becomes paparazzi fodder and the tables get turned.
Power's not without resources and he finds ways to make the pretend marriage both work and be annoying to Tierney. But I don't think I have to tell you where this will all end.
As I said in the review of Love Is News, our fascination with heiresses from Barbara Hutton to Paris Hilton seems endless. But it all gets a bit hollow because if Tierney didn't want publicity, believe me she wouldn't get it. There are a lot of rich people out there whose lives never become tabloid stories.
Still it's amusing and in the supporting cast judges Chill Wills and Gene Lockhart come out the best. In fact Lockhart seems to be continuing his role as a judge from that other 20th Century Fox classic, Miracle on 34th Street.
That Wonderful Urge is a dated comedy that today's audiences will still get laughs from. We do love our ditzy heiresses.
Mildly diverting, predictable romantic comedy...
AlsExGal30 June 2023
... with Gene Tierney as a beautiful heiress who decides to get vengeance on scandalous reporter Tyrone Power, who's been writing gossipy stuff about her, by telling the world they are married. Power gets fired and laughed at and can't prove he didn't marry the lady so decides to turn things around on her.
There are no surprises here, with a supporting cast that includes Reginald Gardiner (wasted as Tierney's boyfriend who takes her out but can't get to first place with her, not that he looks like he really cares) and Lucille Watson (also wasted in a trivial role). I was a little surprised at how obviously fake are the Sun Valley, Idaho backdrops in a few scenes. This is a remake of Love Is News, a 1937 comedy Power had made with Loretta Young, making Power one of the few actors to appear in a remake of one of his own films. Why 20th Century Fox would choose to revive such weak material again over a decade later is beyond me.
Although Power is primarily remembered today for Nightmare Alley and as the hero of a few costume adventures, at the start of his career at Fox he appeared in a number of light weight romantic comedies of a forgettable, frothy nature. That Wonderful Urge, released almost a decade after the last of them, would also be his final venture into screen comedy for, unfortunately, less than memorable results. It was also around this time that he appeared in The Luck of The Irish, a somewhat more engaging affair inasmuch as it mixed the romantic comedy with fantasy by having a leprechaun play the role of matchmaker.
There are no surprises here, with a supporting cast that includes Reginald Gardiner (wasted as Tierney's boyfriend who takes her out but can't get to first place with her, not that he looks like he really cares) and Lucille Watson (also wasted in a trivial role). I was a little surprised at how obviously fake are the Sun Valley, Idaho backdrops in a few scenes. This is a remake of Love Is News, a 1937 comedy Power had made with Loretta Young, making Power one of the few actors to appear in a remake of one of his own films. Why 20th Century Fox would choose to revive such weak material again over a decade later is beyond me.
Although Power is primarily remembered today for Nightmare Alley and as the hero of a few costume adventures, at the start of his career at Fox he appeared in a number of light weight romantic comedies of a forgettable, frothy nature. That Wonderful Urge, released almost a decade after the last of them, would also be his final venture into screen comedy for, unfortunately, less than memorable results. It was also around this time that he appeared in The Luck of The Irish, a somewhat more engaging affair inasmuch as it mixed the romantic comedy with fantasy by having a leprechaun play the role of matchmaker.
Passable screwball romantic comedy
weezeralfalfa9 August 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Definitely fits the definition of a screwball romantic comedy to a T. For about the first half of the film, it's generally amusing, but eventually all the backstabbing and other hateful goings on gets wearing. The whole plot seems so silly. Why couldn't the question of whether Tyler(Tyrone Power) and Sara(Gene Tierney)were married be settled by demanding a marriage certificate or copy of court records(The latter was excused on the basis that the relevant courthouse had since burned down.)
I haven't seen the '37 film "Love is News", upon which this film is based, but most reviews agree it is much better. I have seen the 1943 musical comedy "Sweet Rosie O'Grady", starring Betty Grable and Robert Young. This screenplay was also based upon "Love is News", and thus much resembles the present screenplay. However, I have to say that diluting the screwball comedy with musical interludes makes for a more pleasurable viewing experience. Thus, I believe that Fox's decision to make another non-musical version was wrong. I don't expect that everyone will agree but, to me, it gets too repetitive arguing whether the two are or want to be married. My guess is that I would feel the same way about "Love is News". It certainly helps that two beautiful people are the main stars. I feel that Reginald Gardner's role as Gene's alternative suitor was grossly underwritten, certainly compared to his counterpart in "Sweet Rosie O'Grady".
See it, if you wish, in B&W, at YouTube.
I haven't seen the '37 film "Love is News", upon which this film is based, but most reviews agree it is much better. I have seen the 1943 musical comedy "Sweet Rosie O'Grady", starring Betty Grable and Robert Young. This screenplay was also based upon "Love is News", and thus much resembles the present screenplay. However, I have to say that diluting the screwball comedy with musical interludes makes for a more pleasurable viewing experience. Thus, I believe that Fox's decision to make another non-musical version was wrong. I don't expect that everyone will agree but, to me, it gets too repetitive arguing whether the two are or want to be married. My guess is that I would feel the same way about "Love is News". It certainly helps that two beautiful people are the main stars. I feel that Reginald Gardner's role as Gene's alternative suitor was grossly underwritten, certainly compared to his counterpart in "Sweet Rosie O'Grady".
See it, if you wish, in B&W, at YouTube.
A good remake with some different comedy twists
SimonJack6 February 2022
"That Wonderful Urge" is a remake of the 1937 hit comedy, "Love is News," that starred Loretta Young and Tyrone Power. And, as others have noted, it's very unusual for a same lead to star in a remake. But, Power is again the male lead in this film - 11 years later. Playing opposite him in the female lead is Gene Tierney. Most of the same characters of the original plot are here - all but one with different names. This isn't nearly as good as the original, but it's still a very good comedy. A big twist in the plot provides some new humor.
The supporting cast is also very good, but not quite on the level of the first film. Reginald Gardiner has a larger role as Count André de Guyon. Lloyd Gough plays Duffy, in a much smaller role than that of Don Ameche. Lucile Watson plays Aunt Cornelia Farley, replacing Uncle Cyrus. Chill Wills plays a Justice of the Peace and Arleen Whelan plays reporter Jessica Woods. Two more new characters are Gene Lockhart as Judge Parker, who's the judge in a court trial; and Porter Hall is Tom's attorney, Ketchell..
The major twist in this film is that the reporter and heiress are supposed to be married, instead of engaged. So she tells the press -except for Tom's paper, of course.
The film opens in Sun Valley, Idaho, where Power's Tom Tyler has gone to dig out more on Sara Farley. He is incognito as Tom Thomas, who meets Aunt Farley who then introduces him to Sara at lunch. The next day, they go dog-sledding and Tom hits his head on a tree branch and is knocked unconscious for a short time. They then stay in an emergency ski cabin until rescued.
The next day, the local paper has an article about the former war correspondent, Tyler, being in Sun Valley, with his photo. So, he quickly checks out and catches the train to return to New York. Sara then sees the article and Tom's photo, and the same day the nearby county courthouse is burned to the ground. So, the marriage records were all destroyed. The one little hole in this, of course, is that a couple usually gets a certificate of marriage. The irony, as this story implies, is that the people believe what the press says. So, when Sara says she is married, they all believe her -- including the reporters. No one, Tom included, asks about seeing a marriage certificate as proof of their marriage. Nor does that ever come up even in the trial.
Two more big twists take place in this revised story. When no one believes him, Tom decides to play the married partner role. He arrives at her home, the butler has read of her marriage and doesn't know otherwise, so he lets him in, and then Tom gives the whole staff the night off. The second big twist is when the paper sues Sara for libel. This provides many laughs as Tom's acting the role turns back on him. The butler, store clerks, people from the Whitson's party and others testify that Tom had said he was her husband. Tom's showing up at the Whitson's party that Sara was attending, and acting like a hillbilly is the best part of this film for lots of laughs.
Here are the best lines from this film.
Aunt Cornelia Farley, "He's nice, don't you think?" Count André de Guyon, "I do not. I think he's trying to take the bread right out of my mouth."
Count Guyon, "He's stalking her now - my pigeon. I can tell by the look on his face."
Sara, "The great reading public isn't interested in normal human beings. They want freaks, served up with all the trimmings."
Tom Tyler, "Mrs. Whitson, this seems like a wonderful party. I always have wanted to mingle with the filthy rich."
Tom, "You know, it's funny. Ma always use to say, 'Marry a rich girl.' Feather your nest, she said. It can't hurt. She was right. Guess she must still be watchin' over me."
Mrs. Whitson, "Has your mother passed on, Mr. Tyler?" Tom, "Oh, no, no, no. She's still up there in the cabin on the mountain. 'The old Widdy of Mount Baldy,' they call her."
Tom, "Why, she chews tobacco just like dad, only better. She can drown a beetle at 20 paces."
Tom, "Ma was quite a shot when she was sober."
Tom, "Well, Uncle Porter - he's my half-wit uncle with the hives. Uncle Porter was heatin' up the mash and starting in to sweat out about a 40 gallon of the prettiest mountain dew that ever invited snakes to a picnic."
Tom, to Sara, "I live here. I'm Mr. Farley, or you're Mrs. Tyler - remember?"
Marriage license clerk, "I can't be a party to a conspiracy to commit bigamy. You got any proof that you're not married to Sara Farley?" Tom, "Well, you know no one can prove that they're not married. Nobody issues certificates of non-marriage."
Attorney Ketchell, "Who're we suing this morning?" Findlay, "Sara Farley." Ketchell, "Why? Didn't she give him his allowance?" Tom, "Oh, ho, very funny."
Tom, "This morning an old lady came up to me on the street and hit me on the head with an umbrella." Duffy, "What for?" Tom, "She said she was doing it in the name of womanhood."
Sara, on the witness stand, "He's the only man I've ever met who really isn't interested in my money."
Tom, on the witness stand, to Sara's attorney, "And I resent your attempts to make me appear an idiot. Your honor, do I have to stand for this?" Judge Parker, "Uh, the matter of who is or who is not an idiot has not been brought into this action. The witness will answer the questions."
The supporting cast is also very good, but not quite on the level of the first film. Reginald Gardiner has a larger role as Count André de Guyon. Lloyd Gough plays Duffy, in a much smaller role than that of Don Ameche. Lucile Watson plays Aunt Cornelia Farley, replacing Uncle Cyrus. Chill Wills plays a Justice of the Peace and Arleen Whelan plays reporter Jessica Woods. Two more new characters are Gene Lockhart as Judge Parker, who's the judge in a court trial; and Porter Hall is Tom's attorney, Ketchell..
The major twist in this film is that the reporter and heiress are supposed to be married, instead of engaged. So she tells the press -except for Tom's paper, of course.
The film opens in Sun Valley, Idaho, where Power's Tom Tyler has gone to dig out more on Sara Farley. He is incognito as Tom Thomas, who meets Aunt Farley who then introduces him to Sara at lunch. The next day, they go dog-sledding and Tom hits his head on a tree branch and is knocked unconscious for a short time. They then stay in an emergency ski cabin until rescued.
The next day, the local paper has an article about the former war correspondent, Tyler, being in Sun Valley, with his photo. So, he quickly checks out and catches the train to return to New York. Sara then sees the article and Tom's photo, and the same day the nearby county courthouse is burned to the ground. So, the marriage records were all destroyed. The one little hole in this, of course, is that a couple usually gets a certificate of marriage. The irony, as this story implies, is that the people believe what the press says. So, when Sara says she is married, they all believe her -- including the reporters. No one, Tom included, asks about seeing a marriage certificate as proof of their marriage. Nor does that ever come up even in the trial.
Two more big twists take place in this revised story. When no one believes him, Tom decides to play the married partner role. He arrives at her home, the butler has read of her marriage and doesn't know otherwise, so he lets him in, and then Tom gives the whole staff the night off. The second big twist is when the paper sues Sara for libel. This provides many laughs as Tom's acting the role turns back on him. The butler, store clerks, people from the Whitson's party and others testify that Tom had said he was her husband. Tom's showing up at the Whitson's party that Sara was attending, and acting like a hillbilly is the best part of this film for lots of laughs.
Here are the best lines from this film.
Aunt Cornelia Farley, "He's nice, don't you think?" Count André de Guyon, "I do not. I think he's trying to take the bread right out of my mouth."
Count Guyon, "He's stalking her now - my pigeon. I can tell by the look on his face."
Sara, "The great reading public isn't interested in normal human beings. They want freaks, served up with all the trimmings."
Tom Tyler, "Mrs. Whitson, this seems like a wonderful party. I always have wanted to mingle with the filthy rich."
Tom, "You know, it's funny. Ma always use to say, 'Marry a rich girl.' Feather your nest, she said. It can't hurt. She was right. Guess she must still be watchin' over me."
Mrs. Whitson, "Has your mother passed on, Mr. Tyler?" Tom, "Oh, no, no, no. She's still up there in the cabin on the mountain. 'The old Widdy of Mount Baldy,' they call her."
Tom, "Why, she chews tobacco just like dad, only better. She can drown a beetle at 20 paces."
Tom, "Ma was quite a shot when she was sober."
Tom, "Well, Uncle Porter - he's my half-wit uncle with the hives. Uncle Porter was heatin' up the mash and starting in to sweat out about a 40 gallon of the prettiest mountain dew that ever invited snakes to a picnic."
Tom, to Sara, "I live here. I'm Mr. Farley, or you're Mrs. Tyler - remember?"
Marriage license clerk, "I can't be a party to a conspiracy to commit bigamy. You got any proof that you're not married to Sara Farley?" Tom, "Well, you know no one can prove that they're not married. Nobody issues certificates of non-marriage."
Attorney Ketchell, "Who're we suing this morning?" Findlay, "Sara Farley." Ketchell, "Why? Didn't she give him his allowance?" Tom, "Oh, ho, very funny."
Tom, "This morning an old lady came up to me on the street and hit me on the head with an umbrella." Duffy, "What for?" Tom, "She said she was doing it in the name of womanhood."
Sara, on the witness stand, "He's the only man I've ever met who really isn't interested in my money."
Tom, on the witness stand, to Sara's attorney, "And I resent your attempts to make me appear an idiot. Your honor, do I have to stand for this?" Judge Parker, "Uh, the matter of who is or who is not an idiot has not been brought into this action. The witness will answer the questions."
Star power, chemistry keeps pic afloat despite illogical script
adrianovasconcelos29 October 2023
Robert Sinclair does not feature in my gallery of preferred directors, and after watching the supposedly screwball comedy that THAT WONDERFUL URGE was publicized as, I doubt I will be looking for his works.
That said, cinematography rates more than just competent, especially on the snowy slopes where tabloid reporter Tyrone has an accident that somehow sees him (allegedly) married to lovely rich heiress Tierney, who donates him $1 million to boot.
Talk about fairy tales, hey? Of course, only US spectators emerging from the losses and hardships of WW II would pay to watch a film resting on such a skiddy and far-fetched script. In Italy, where day to day survival proved dire, neorealism reigned.
What saves it is the star power and chemistry between two beauty-endowed humans, Tyrone and Gene, who apparently did not just act, but privately took their attraction to more physical and emotional levels. In the process, equally lovely Arleen Whelan is just jettisoned after Tyrone tries to marry her so he can prove that Tierney has been lying about her marital status. That is one detail tough to explain: Tyrone is so high-minded that he does not want the $1 million and rejects marriage to Tierney, yet he just uses poor Whelan like garbage.
As for Gardiner, in the role of leaching European aristocrat, it is just impossible to believe that Tierney would take the slightest interest in him, let alone even jokingly take his ring.
As planktonrules points out, the original (LOVE IS NEWS, 1937) is a better film. Still, Tyrone and Gene deserve my 7/10.
That said, cinematography rates more than just competent, especially on the snowy slopes where tabloid reporter Tyrone has an accident that somehow sees him (allegedly) married to lovely rich heiress Tierney, who donates him $1 million to boot.
Talk about fairy tales, hey? Of course, only US spectators emerging from the losses and hardships of WW II would pay to watch a film resting on such a skiddy and far-fetched script. In Italy, where day to day survival proved dire, neorealism reigned.
What saves it is the star power and chemistry between two beauty-endowed humans, Tyrone and Gene, who apparently did not just act, but privately took their attraction to more physical and emotional levels. In the process, equally lovely Arleen Whelan is just jettisoned after Tyrone tries to marry her so he can prove that Tierney has been lying about her marital status. That is one detail tough to explain: Tyrone is so high-minded that he does not want the $1 million and rejects marriage to Tierney, yet he just uses poor Whelan like garbage.
As for Gardiner, in the role of leaching European aristocrat, it is just impossible to believe that Tierney would take the slightest interest in him, let alone even jokingly take his ring.
As planktonrules points out, the original (LOVE IS NEWS, 1937) is a better film. Still, Tyrone and Gene deserve my 7/10.
Good movie but miscasted
harris-9341922 March 2024
I found this little gem on Hulu while in the mood for a movie in black and white. For some reason all of the movies showing on TCM were made in the 1970's (yuck).
So, not being a regular viewer of Tyrone Power, I didn't know what to expect. About mid way through the movie I thought it would really be great if this were Myna Loy and Cary Grant or William Powell.
The stars of this movie were missing that certain spark that lifts a thin storyline into something more. While the stars were very likable and attractive they had very little chemistry. Some of the dialogue was rather funny and the supporting cast was good. It definitely wasn't a waste of time.
So, not being a regular viewer of Tyrone Power, I didn't know what to expect. About mid way through the movie I thought it would really be great if this were Myna Loy and Cary Grant or William Powell.
The stars of this movie were missing that certain spark that lifts a thin storyline into something more. While the stars were very likable and attractive they had very little chemistry. Some of the dialogue was rather funny and the supporting cast was good. It definitely wasn't a waste of time.
Wonderful collection of fine actors in this comedy remake.
lora6421 September 2008
Warning: Spoilers
After half a lifetime of viewing movies I finally got to see this film "That Wonderful Urge" with Ty Power and Gene Tierney, once again teamed up. Always interesting to see a new film not viewed before.
There's a fabulous, well-rounded cast - Gene Lockhart, Lucile Watson, Reginald Gardiner, Chill Wills, Porter Hall - all familiar faces, and I really felt much more could have been done due to the presence of these great actors appearing all in one film. Well, in Marlon Brando's words (On the Waterfront), you could say, "I coulda been a somebody" because everything was there except a fine script, but I'm thinking drama instead of comedy, my fault really. I think the main problem is that Ty and Gene are forever enshrined in my memory as two of the finest actors in that great story, "The Razor's Edge," an influence which is hard to shake free of and I'd gladly welcome another film of that calibre with them in it but my expectations will have to remain a wish.
Since the story of "That Wonderful Urge" is based on comedy I must admit there are many amusing moments and unexpected turns as the tale unfolds.
Thomas Tyler (Ty), a reporter, is out to get the inside scoop for his newspaper on the heiress, Sara Farley (Gene Tierney). After he poses as an admirer in order to obtain a story of her personal side, she becomes aware of his trickery and is determined to show him what it's like being in the spotlight of public news, and she does this by announcing to a group of anxious newspapermen the fact that they are indeed married. Needless to say from hereon the newspapers take over and the plot is up and running. It is then Tom-Tom's turn to refute the statement and it gets more complicated at every turn.
I like Gene Lockhart in his role as a judge and it reminded me of his later role in "Carousel" also.
This movie is one I recently bought as part of a box set "Tyrone Power Matinée Collection" where I thought I was getting five movies but it turns out to be ten, plus more extras. It's a must-have for those who appreciate Tyrone Power's films.
There's a fabulous, well-rounded cast - Gene Lockhart, Lucile Watson, Reginald Gardiner, Chill Wills, Porter Hall - all familiar faces, and I really felt much more could have been done due to the presence of these great actors appearing all in one film. Well, in Marlon Brando's words (On the Waterfront), you could say, "I coulda been a somebody" because everything was there except a fine script, but I'm thinking drama instead of comedy, my fault really. I think the main problem is that Ty and Gene are forever enshrined in my memory as two of the finest actors in that great story, "The Razor's Edge," an influence which is hard to shake free of and I'd gladly welcome another film of that calibre with them in it but my expectations will have to remain a wish.
Since the story of "That Wonderful Urge" is based on comedy I must admit there are many amusing moments and unexpected turns as the tale unfolds.
Thomas Tyler (Ty), a reporter, is out to get the inside scoop for his newspaper on the heiress, Sara Farley (Gene Tierney). After he poses as an admirer in order to obtain a story of her personal side, she becomes aware of his trickery and is determined to show him what it's like being in the spotlight of public news, and she does this by announcing to a group of anxious newspapermen the fact that they are indeed married. Needless to say from hereon the newspapers take over and the plot is up and running. It is then Tom-Tom's turn to refute the statement and it gets more complicated at every turn.
I like Gene Lockhart in his role as a judge and it reminded me of his later role in "Carousel" also.
This movie is one I recently bought as part of a box set "Tyrone Power Matinée Collection" where I thought I was getting five movies but it turns out to be ten, plus more extras. It's a must-have for those who appreciate Tyrone Power's films.
I didn't see the original so I'm reviewing without comparing
skiddoo14 August 2010
I found this movie entertaining and humorous although the ending was abrupt. I couldn't help thinking how topical it was with the tabloids and celebs in the news these days and even the President being asked about a reality show personality when he was on The View. I don't think this movie would have been suitable during WWII but in the relief of the postwar era a light comedy might have filled the bill, and tabloids were flourishing along with fan magazines and interest in the privileged, whether heiress or royal. (The 1947 wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a big seller, too.) I hope some day to see the original to compare and contrast but as a stand alone, this movie was pleasant with some good lines, a few laughs, and kept me awake longer than I had intended so I could see the end. If you don't have anything better to do, you might enjoy it as a diversion.
More of a "Hate Story" Than a "Love Story" But Still Funny
jayraskin125 September 2015
Warning: Spoilers
I watched the original version of this movie, "Love is News" (Loretta Young, Tyrone Power) about a month ago, and I watched "Sun Valley Serenade" with John Payne and Sonja Henie about a week ago. As this movie takes a lot from both those movies, I was having intense feelings of deja vu, at least through the first half of this movie. While both those movies are a little funnier, this movie also has some unique charms. Both Gene Tierney and Tyrone Power seemed a little bit old and serious for this type of screwball romantic company. This is a little strange because Tierney was only 27 and Power only 34 when they made the movie. Both look 10 years older. Perhaps it was because they were much meaner to each other than we normally see in a movie of this genre. Tierney doesn't just want to get Power fired, but she seems bent on reducing him to utter poverty, starvation and impotence. Power looks like he's about to punch Tierney at a couple of points in the film, and seems almost to threaten her with rape at one point. This sharpness of conflict between the two romantic leads keeps the movie interesting, but it undercuts the romance. The characters are supposed to be on their honeymoon, but they act as if they've been married for twenty years and ready to tear each other apart. It is a some times heavy screwball comedy, not something you would expect. The movie seems to work against itself by being alternatively pleasant and challenging. We should perhaps appreciate it for being both.
Disappointing reteaming of a glamorous film couple
blanche-226 November 2005
Warning: Spoilers
Tyrone Power made light comedies in the mid to late 1930s when he was first establishing himself at Twentieth Century Fox. In fact, he made this exact light comedy in 1937, then called "Love is News." The story concerns an heiress who, to get back at a reporter and show him what it's like to be the subject of headlines, claims they're married. This tired romp was fresher back then and much, much more entertaining in the hands of Power, Loretta Young, and Don Ameche. What a blow this must have been for Power, to make "The Razor's Edge," his personal favorite, "Nightmare Alley," and "Captain from Castile," and then be forced into this by the studio. It's no wonder he turned to the stage and then formed his own film production company.
Power is paired with his leading lady from happier productions, the luminous Gene Tierney ("Son of Fury" and "The Razor's Edge"). Unfortunately, she plays the role of the heiress in such a coy and put-on manner that it's hard to tell when the character is being sincere, as she delivers her lines in the same way on both occasions, and always with an icy smile. Power does his best - he plays the role realistically, with no mugging or attempts at forced humor, but alas, the material isn't very good. These two wonderful stars can be seen to better advantage in earlier and later films.
Power is paired with his leading lady from happier productions, the luminous Gene Tierney ("Son of Fury" and "The Razor's Edge"). Unfortunately, she plays the role of the heiress in such a coy and put-on manner that it's hard to tell when the character is being sincere, as she delivers her lines in the same way on both occasions, and always with an icy smile. Power does his best - he plays the role realistically, with no mugging or attempts at forced humor, but alas, the material isn't very good. These two wonderful stars can be seen to better advantage in earlier and later films.
A disappointing remake
planktonrules10 January 2009
This is an odd film--not because it is a remake but because both the original (LOVE IS NEWS) and the remake star Tyrone Power. It's rare to see a star do this, as the studios often remade films but hardly ever used the same actors. In addition, both films are bundled together on one DVD so you can compare them. After seeing both, I would definitely recommend you see LOVE IS NEWS, as it's superior in every way.
The film is about newspaper man (Power) harassing a rich heiress (Gene Tierney) in order to make headlines. It really didn't seem to matter if his articles were true and when Gene finds out that Tyrone is NOT the man he claims to be but a reporter, she is furious. However, instead of blowing her top, she decides to give him a taste of her own medicine by announcing to all the newspapers that she and Power are married--as she knows that the papers will now make Power's life miserable as well. Oddly, in the original film, the heiress announces they are engaged--here she claims they are married--though this hardly improves the quality of the film (though it does provide a bit of sexual innuendo the original didn't have).
The acting is decent enough, though I really think Loretta Young did a better job in the original--probably because she seemed to have a better gift for comedy. Also, while Tyrone tries, he just doesn't seem to have quite the charm he did in the original. Part of this is naturally because it's a remake and part of this is because the supporting characters weren't nearly as strong. In particular, the Justice of the Peace was a big weak point here, as instead of coming off as comical, he's a sadist and pretty much ignores the law--surefire comedy killers! My advice is see the original. Then, if you insist, see the remake. BUT, don't see the remake first--it just doesn't stack up well and might convince you not to bother with the first film and that would be a big mistake.
The film is about newspaper man (Power) harassing a rich heiress (Gene Tierney) in order to make headlines. It really didn't seem to matter if his articles were true and when Gene finds out that Tyrone is NOT the man he claims to be but a reporter, she is furious. However, instead of blowing her top, she decides to give him a taste of her own medicine by announcing to all the newspapers that she and Power are married--as she knows that the papers will now make Power's life miserable as well. Oddly, in the original film, the heiress announces they are engaged--here she claims they are married--though this hardly improves the quality of the film (though it does provide a bit of sexual innuendo the original didn't have).
The acting is decent enough, though I really think Loretta Young did a better job in the original--probably because she seemed to have a better gift for comedy. Also, while Tyrone tries, he just doesn't seem to have quite the charm he did in the original. Part of this is naturally because it's a remake and part of this is because the supporting characters weren't nearly as strong. In particular, the Justice of the Peace was a big weak point here, as instead of coming off as comical, he's a sadist and pretty much ignores the law--surefire comedy killers! My advice is see the original. Then, if you insist, see the remake. BUT, don't see the remake first--it just doesn't stack up well and might convince you not to bother with the first film and that would be a big mistake.
Lacked wonder and urgency
TheLittleSongbird7 August 2020
Will get this off the bat briefly, count me in as another person that has seen the original 'Love is News'. Count me in also, to say briefly, as someone that thoroughly enjoyed that film and considers it vastly superior. 'That Wonderful Urge' had quite a lot going for it, with Tyrone Power returning eleven years later and with a great cast on paper being its main attractions (though was intrigued to see how Gene Tierney would fare in comedy), so should have worked a lot better than it did.
It is easy to inevitably compare 'That Wonderful Urge' to 'Love is News', seeing as the former is a remake. In this regard, there is no doubt in my mind which film is much better. Every film that is a remake or sequel of another deserves to be judged on its own terms without being compared too much, have always found it a far better way to judge unless the difference in quality is huge. In this regard, 'That Wonderful Urge' underwhelms just as much. It does have its good things and moments, but it could have been quite a lot more.
'That Wonderful Urge' has good assets. It looks lovely, with photography that is never too filmed play-like or tries to do too much and the costumes are stylish. The music has a nice energy and fits well tonally, not over-scoring or being too chirpy. Nice to hear "It Happened in Sun Valley".
Some of the supporting cast come over very well, Lucile Watson really sparkles as always and Chill Wills is a lot of fun. Both are in roles that suit them very well. Gene Lockhart is well suited to his role too.
Power does his utmost best but had a lot more charm and energy before. Tierney was fine in drama but seemed out of her depth here, her comic timing came over as forced and her interpretation was rather too coy for my liking. Reginald Gardiner's character is very underwritten and he lacks personality, being not menacing enough for a cad while not being suave or charming enough to be likeable. Nobody else stands out. None of the characters are particularly interesting, Watson's comes closest and that is more down to how she played her. The direction is far from amateurish but could have been slicker.
Admittedly the story was very far-fetched and slight in 'Love is News', but both are accentuated here in 'That Wonderful Urge'. The pace really lacks urgency, so the slightness was less forgivable as some of the story felt uneventful which it didn't feel as much before, and the latter stages really stretch credulity (so did the original but not to breaking point like here). The script isn't sharp enough for the wit to work, actually found some of it on the tired side.
In conclusion, has its moments but lacking for me. 4/10
It is easy to inevitably compare 'That Wonderful Urge' to 'Love is News', seeing as the former is a remake. In this regard, there is no doubt in my mind which film is much better. Every film that is a remake or sequel of another deserves to be judged on its own terms without being compared too much, have always found it a far better way to judge unless the difference in quality is huge. In this regard, 'That Wonderful Urge' underwhelms just as much. It does have its good things and moments, but it could have been quite a lot more.
'That Wonderful Urge' has good assets. It looks lovely, with photography that is never too filmed play-like or tries to do too much and the costumes are stylish. The music has a nice energy and fits well tonally, not over-scoring or being too chirpy. Nice to hear "It Happened in Sun Valley".
Some of the supporting cast come over very well, Lucile Watson really sparkles as always and Chill Wills is a lot of fun. Both are in roles that suit them very well. Gene Lockhart is well suited to his role too.
Power does his utmost best but had a lot more charm and energy before. Tierney was fine in drama but seemed out of her depth here, her comic timing came over as forced and her interpretation was rather too coy for my liking. Reginald Gardiner's character is very underwritten and he lacks personality, being not menacing enough for a cad while not being suave or charming enough to be likeable. Nobody else stands out. None of the characters are particularly interesting, Watson's comes closest and that is more down to how she played her. The direction is far from amateurish but could have been slicker.
Admittedly the story was very far-fetched and slight in 'Love is News', but both are accentuated here in 'That Wonderful Urge'. The pace really lacks urgency, so the slightness was less forgivable as some of the story felt uneventful which it didn't feel as much before, and the latter stages really stretch credulity (so did the original but not to breaking point like here). The script isn't sharp enough for the wit to work, actually found some of it on the tired side.
In conclusion, has its moments but lacking for me. 4/10
so fluffy it floats in air
j_eyon23 March 2013
if you're in the mood for a romantic comedy - without anything thought provoking - this might do
the fun comes watching the two potential lovers trying to outwit each other - there were a couple obvious steps that might have been taken - but using them right away would have cut the plot short - so try to resist belaboring them
Gene Tierney & Tyrone Power were the eye candy of the time - they weren't top actors - but by this time - they had developed an easy charm in place of the finesse of the better actors - such as Carol Lombard - Claudette Colbert - William Powell - Cary Grant
the scheming and the repartee were pretty good - but not the best - and the falling in love wasn't so obvious - still the expectation was there to help the audience over the threshold
competent in all departments - which may explain why it isn't cited as one of the great romantic comedy - still - it's a good choice for a bit of light entertainment
the fun comes watching the two potential lovers trying to outwit each other - there were a couple obvious steps that might have been taken - but using them right away would have cut the plot short - so try to resist belaboring them
Gene Tierney & Tyrone Power were the eye candy of the time - they weren't top actors - but by this time - they had developed an easy charm in place of the finesse of the better actors - such as Carol Lombard - Claudette Colbert - William Powell - Cary Grant
the scheming and the repartee were pretty good - but not the best - and the falling in love wasn't so obvious - still the expectation was there to help the audience over the threshold
competent in all departments - which may explain why it isn't cited as one of the great romantic comedy - still - it's a good choice for a bit of light entertainment
Post-war newspaper comedy that doesn't work for that era.
mark.waltz23 March 2010
Warning: Spoilers
This remake of "Love is News", an OK screwball comedy from 1937, is much weaker than the original for many reasons. The biggest reason is that it seems so out of place in 1948 as compared to 1937, even though it wasn't exactly great then. Once again, Tyrone Power is a reporter who wants to get the dirt on one of the world's richest bachlorettes (here Gene Tierney instead of Loretta Young). Power was perfect for romantic comedy in 1937, but 10 years have not been kind to him in several ways that has a major impact on his performance. Unlike Rock Hudson (who could do these types of roles in 1954 as well as 1964) , Power's face not only aged, but he lost the youthful glow and became much more serious looking. Probably the best looking actor in Hollywood in the 30's, Power had charm that took away from the implausibilities of the original story. By 1948, he was better off in films like "Nightmare Alley" and "The Captain From Castille", as his rugged looks had only been enhanced with age. But in comedy, he appears slightly tired and it really lessens the impact of the pairing between him and Tierney, who really has no place in comedy. A fine dramatic actress for sure, but once she starts doing pratfalls, it seems forced and she seems most uncomfortable.
The major problem is that the world of 1948 was much more serious than the world of 1937, and to portray journalists preying on the rich for scandal seems out of place for front-page news. Sure, society pages, yes, but on the front page? When Europe is still in recovery, there are communist scares everywhere, things in Korea are getting hot, and race relations are beginning to boil. Power wouldn't seem right in 1948 as any type of reporter but a serious one, and working for a scandal sheet seems degrading to him. Loretta Young, who played the female lead in "Love is News", was perfectly balanced as both a dramatic and comic actress, perfectly able to deal with breaking a nail while being carried around by handsome Power. She seems to love the kinkiness of their relationship, but Tierney is awkward and even embarrassed by this. Power is still funny in spots, particularly at a society party which he shows up to embarrass Tierney.
The best part of "That Wonderful Urge" is the supporting cast, particularly Lucille Watson as Tierney's aunt. She has played a variety of society dames, some domineering and cold, but mostly warm-hearted and filled with a desire to see the younger generation have the fun she probably had in the beginning of the 20th Century when she was a girl. Reginald Gardiner plays the George Sanders role here, and is merely adequate. He lacks Sander's continental charm. Chill Wills takes on the Slim Summerville role of the annoyed small town sheriff who puts Power and Tierney in jail overnight. In comparing the scenes between the two films, they are almost identical. Gene Reynolds, who could play the most obnoxious of businessmen or politicians, is delightful as a judge. Replacing Jane Darwell as Powers' landlady is future "Caged" star Hope Emerson who was just beginning her rise as an unforgettable Amazonian character actress in films.
"That Wonderful Urge" is not a bad film, just out of place in 1948. 20th Century Fox had better films to remake, so this was a bad choice. With comedies like "State of the Union", "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House" and "The Egg and I" shining in 1948, "That Wonderful Urge" comes off as weak, which is acceptable in a "B" picture, but certainly not an "A".
The major problem is that the world of 1948 was much more serious than the world of 1937, and to portray journalists preying on the rich for scandal seems out of place for front-page news. Sure, society pages, yes, but on the front page? When Europe is still in recovery, there are communist scares everywhere, things in Korea are getting hot, and race relations are beginning to boil. Power wouldn't seem right in 1948 as any type of reporter but a serious one, and working for a scandal sheet seems degrading to him. Loretta Young, who played the female lead in "Love is News", was perfectly balanced as both a dramatic and comic actress, perfectly able to deal with breaking a nail while being carried around by handsome Power. She seems to love the kinkiness of their relationship, but Tierney is awkward and even embarrassed by this. Power is still funny in spots, particularly at a society party which he shows up to embarrass Tierney.
The best part of "That Wonderful Urge" is the supporting cast, particularly Lucille Watson as Tierney's aunt. She has played a variety of society dames, some domineering and cold, but mostly warm-hearted and filled with a desire to see the younger generation have the fun she probably had in the beginning of the 20th Century when she was a girl. Reginald Gardiner plays the George Sanders role here, and is merely adequate. He lacks Sander's continental charm. Chill Wills takes on the Slim Summerville role of the annoyed small town sheriff who puts Power and Tierney in jail overnight. In comparing the scenes between the two films, they are almost identical. Gene Reynolds, who could play the most obnoxious of businessmen or politicians, is delightful as a judge. Replacing Jane Darwell as Powers' landlady is future "Caged" star Hope Emerson who was just beginning her rise as an unforgettable Amazonian character actress in films.
"That Wonderful Urge" is not a bad film, just out of place in 1948. 20th Century Fox had better films to remake, so this was a bad choice. With comedies like "State of the Union", "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House" and "The Egg and I" shining in 1948, "That Wonderful Urge" comes off as weak, which is acceptable in a "B" picture, but certainly not an "A".
When will they learn?
mls418227 November 2021
Just because a performer is attractive, talented and has star power and charm it does not mean they have comedic skills. This farce has few chuckles, let alone belly laughs. It would have been better with comedic actors but not great.
It is worth seeing. Power and Tierney are both attractive and charming. They even gave chemistry. They just aren't funny.
It is worth seeing. Power and Tierney are both attractive and charming. They even gave chemistry. They just aren't funny.
What's So Wonderful About this Urge? That Wonderful Urge *1/2
edwagreen25 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Inane farce where an heiress wants to take revenge on the reporter who wrote about her in negative ways and then wooed her along the ski slopes.
Gene Tierney takes that revenge by claiming that reporter Tyrone Power married her. As a result, his life is wrecked and the remainder of the picture is where Tierney thwarts the efforts of Power to prove otherwise. Some of the scenes are funny, but the film becomes tedious at best thanks to hopeless writing.
Tierney and Power were in such a much better vehicle in 1946's "The Razor's Edge."
Comedy was not exactly their forte.
Gene Tierney takes that revenge by claiming that reporter Tyrone Power married her. As a result, his life is wrecked and the remainder of the picture is where Tierney thwarts the efforts of Power to prove otherwise. Some of the scenes are funny, but the film becomes tedious at best thanks to hopeless writing.
Tierney and Power were in such a much better vehicle in 1946's "The Razor's Edge."
Comedy was not exactly their forte.
Stubbornly unfunny attempt at screwball comedy
rfkeser9 July 2000
Warning: Spoilers
Using the same plot as MGM's LIBLED LADY and EASY TO WED [aggrieved heiress vs. undercover reporter], Fox tried to resuscitate the romantic screwball comedy. However, aside from a few stray witty lines, nothing seems to work: not the comic business that Tyrone Power adeptly performs, not the Katharine Hepburn accent essayed by Gene Tierney, and certainly not scenes like the jailhouse exchange of bedbugs [what were they thinking?] Power and Tierney supply ample star power, and all the cast members are perfectly competent, but the whole enterprise resists laughter. Perhaps it's the brief but awful organ music in the score.
A little silly
HotToastyRag14 May 2019
As painful and awkward as it is for audiences to watch an onscreen couple who used to be an offscreen couple, I'm sure it's infinitely more painful and awkward for the actors themselves. Why do they agree to make the movie? I don't have the answer, but if you want to watch Tyrone Power and Gene Tierney in a movie after his unrequited feelings were squelched during 1946's The Razor's Edge, then you can check out That Wonderful Urge. It's a little sad to see the pain in Ty's expressions, though.
This is a remake of Love is News, which starred Tyrone Power in the same role. Loretta Young was the female lead, and it's easy to see Gene patterning herself after her predecessor. This romantic comedy doesn't really make any sense, but if it sounds cute to you, you can rent it. Ty is a newspaper man who's written scathing society columns about debutante Gene Tierney. To get her revenge, she spreads it around that she and Ty were secretly married over the weekend when they were thrown together at a ski lodge. How is that getting revenge? It'll either be disproved immediately, since no marriage license was issued and no one presided, or it'll make her look like an idiot who's a terrible judge of character. Ty's thrown into a tizzy, and for some unexplained reason, he doesn't think to disprove her claim with a lack of marriage license of justice of the peace witness. Parts of the film are extremely silly and border on screwball comedy, so this isn't anywhere near my favorite of either of theirs.
This is a remake of Love is News, which starred Tyrone Power in the same role. Loretta Young was the female lead, and it's easy to see Gene patterning herself after her predecessor. This romantic comedy doesn't really make any sense, but if it sounds cute to you, you can rent it. Ty is a newspaper man who's written scathing society columns about debutante Gene Tierney. To get her revenge, she spreads it around that she and Ty were secretly married over the weekend when they were thrown together at a ski lodge. How is that getting revenge? It'll either be disproved immediately, since no marriage license was issued and no one presided, or it'll make her look like an idiot who's a terrible judge of character. Ty's thrown into a tizzy, and for some unexplained reason, he doesn't think to disprove her claim with a lack of marriage license of justice of the peace witness. Parts of the film are extremely silly and border on screwball comedy, so this isn't anywhere near my favorite of either of theirs.
"That Wonderful Urge" Urgently Needs Some Spark!
glennstenb6 March 2023
"That Wonderful Urge" could be described as a time filler, in that it was made by Fox to keep select members of their stable of actors busy with contractual obligations while they shot other, more important properties for wider and more publicized release. The film is passably entertaining but could have been considerably more fun if another pass-through had been made with the script, a fire had been lit under the actors, and if the sets and backdrops had been made with a little more care and polish.
But it is the acting and the story that drags the film down most of all. The performances in large measure seem nearly lifeless, if not robotic, most notably by Ms. Tierney. Maybe the effort just reflects the script, which is largely trivial and tired, making the viewing at times tedious. Mr. Power appears to be preoccupied with other matters, while Ms. Tierney just appears to not be ready for this kind of would-be humorous romp.
Overall, the picture is not recommended for the casual consumer of Hollywood's golden age of movies, but rather for those who have a yen for exposure to a wider spectrum of big-studio Hollywood product, good, bad, and indifferent.
But it is the acting and the story that drags the film down most of all. The performances in large measure seem nearly lifeless, if not robotic, most notably by Ms. Tierney. Maybe the effort just reflects the script, which is largely trivial and tired, making the viewing at times tedious. Mr. Power appears to be preoccupied with other matters, while Ms. Tierney just appears to not be ready for this kind of would-be humorous romp.
Overall, the picture is not recommended for the casual consumer of Hollywood's golden age of movies, but rather for those who have a yen for exposure to a wider spectrum of big-studio Hollywood product, good, bad, and indifferent.
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