I've always liked Eve Arden...as a supporting actress, and I remember the reruns of this television series. I wasn't expecting a lot here, but was pleasantly surprised. It's not a great film, but it's quite enjoyable.
For me -- a retired teacher and principal -- the problem with the film was all the things that just wouldn't have happened it a school...except when it comes right down to it, I've never seen a film about a teacher where there was ALMOST no classroom scenes involved. But, that's okay.
This is really a love story, although a bit off beat. It's homey, not bad at capturing the era, and it's interesting to see some of the actors involved.
Eve Arden was very good in this role, although I remember her more for her sarcasm in other films...usually quite delicious. There's the wonderful Gale Gordon (of "The Lucy Show" and "Here's Lucy") as the principal. Don Porter is here as a potential love interest and parent; I always enjoyed Porter, although I usually think of him as a television actor. I was not at all familiar with Robert Rockwell, as the real love interest, but I thought he was good here. Jane Morgan as the old lady renting out a room to Miss Brooks was a hoot. Watching this film, and remembering him in the television show, I would have never guess that Richard Crenna would become a really good actor; he was terrible here. Interesting to see Nick Adams as one of the most important students in the film. And, Joseph Kearns as a member of the school board...I used to like him in the "Dennis The Menace" television show.
It's light fare, but I enjoyed it...and the memories.
For me -- a retired teacher and principal -- the problem with the film was all the things that just wouldn't have happened it a school...except when it comes right down to it, I've never seen a film about a teacher where there was ALMOST no classroom scenes involved. But, that's okay.
This is really a love story, although a bit off beat. It's homey, not bad at capturing the era, and it's interesting to see some of the actors involved.
Eve Arden was very good in this role, although I remember her more for her sarcasm in other films...usually quite delicious. There's the wonderful Gale Gordon (of "The Lucy Show" and "Here's Lucy") as the principal. Don Porter is here as a potential love interest and parent; I always enjoyed Porter, although I usually think of him as a television actor. I was not at all familiar with Robert Rockwell, as the real love interest, but I thought he was good here. Jane Morgan as the old lady renting out a room to Miss Brooks was a hoot. Watching this film, and remembering him in the television show, I would have never guess that Richard Crenna would become a really good actor; he was terrible here. Interesting to see Nick Adams as one of the most important students in the film. And, Joseph Kearns as a member of the school board...I used to like him in the "Dennis The Menace" television show.
It's light fare, but I enjoyed it...and the memories.