Monday, May 7, 2012

Old dude watching old movies - #1, "The Enchanted Cottage"

I'm a big fan of Turner Classic Movies.  Some of the movies from the 1930s-1950s are an interesting view into life in this country at that time.  I really get a kick out of the World War II-era flicks.  The dialogue was sharp and witty, the guys were dapper in suits and fedoras, and the ladies were feminine and sharp-tongued.

From time to time, I will mention movies I like.  Some are well-known, while others may not have the same widespread appeal but are enjoyable nonetheless.

Last week, I recorded "The Enchanted Cottage", released in 1945.  Robert Young and Dorothy McGuire were the leads.  The picture is set around the time of World War II. It was a remake of a previous silent movie released in 1924.

You can go to the Internet Movie Database or Wikipedia to see all the details.

[Spoiler]  There are a few scenes that caught my attention.  One in particular was when Laura (McGuire) was working at a wartime "canteen", where troops soon to ship out wanted a last bit of dancing and dining with local girls.  Laura was in the kitchen doing dishes when the lady who hosted the canteen insisted Laura go out and mingle with the soldiers, sailors and marines present.  Being a rather homely girl, Laura reluctantly went out into the ballroom area.  At that moment, men and women were pairing off to dance.  To Laura's dismay, one by one several guys took a look at her and either went in another direction or (in one case) bent over and pretended to tie his shoe instead of approaching her for a dance or a chat.  The look on her face as she held back tears while grabbing her coat and hat to leave the canteen was heartbreaking.

The ending was an uplifting one, that showed how true love can change the way one looks at life.  True love isn't based on outer appearance.  I found this picture a pleasant surprise.

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