The Thrill of It All

"The Thrill Of It All" was one of my best childhood memories. In the days prior to wall-to-wall cable stations, there were certain films that enjoyed a regular place on the weekend matinée lineup on local TV stations. This was one of them. And the funny thing is when I originally saw it, I never thought of it as dated or sexist (this is a memory from about 28 years ago). Even though I grew up in a household where both my parents worked (and my dad never gave it a second thought since there were six of us), I merely accepted the script as a reflection of the 1963 sensibility and not my own. You really can't watch a movie that's older than you are (I'm guessing lots of you are under 40) and expect it to reflect modern-day sensibilities. That said, the film is expertly written taking several stabs and jabs at the TV advertising (as well as the network) industry. Doris Day was the quintessential modern wife/mother on-screen at the time, and James Garner was a perfect spousal foil for her. And what a touch of class by Arlene "What's My Line" Francis as an elegant expectant (albeit older) mother and nervous expectant father Edward Andrews.

This is the first time I write a comment about a film. Considering that my favorite films, since I discovered the movies, are by Scorsese, Gonzalez Inarritu, Polanski, etc. What am I doing selecting a Doris Day comedy for my first review. Okay, let me tell you. I was overwhelmed by the sheer brilliance of the lady. I've always heard about Doris Day but I had never seen her (The Man Who Knew Too Much is my next one). She is extraordinary because in the midst of all the zaniness there is an unquestionable truth. I believed completely in her character I never thought for a moment she was trying to sell me something. I recognized her, I knew who her character was and then, of course, I laughed, loud and hard. So the reason that I've selected "The Thrill Of It All" as my first review is because that's what cinema is all about. Surprises and discoveries. Thank you Doris Day, you've given me something new to look forward to.

Doris Day made a lot of movies that were a lot better than people knew and so many of them went practically unnoticed. A prime example was the 1963 comedy THE THRILL OF IT ALL, which starred Doris as Beverly Boyer, the wife of a doctor (James Garner), who, quite accidentally, becomes a television spokesperson for a product called "Happy Soap" and becomes an overnight celebrity much to the consternation of her husband. Day is at the height of her charm here as she is completely winning as the housewife thrown into the celebrity spotlight and doesn't really know how to handle it. Garner matches her note for note as the slightly chauvinistic husband who would rather have his wife at home. There is also a lovely supporting turn by Arlene Francis as a friend of Doris' who Doris actually helps to give birth in a cab and Carl Reiner (who also co-wrote the screenplay) has an amusing set of cameos as the star of the show where Happy Soap is advertised. A warm family comedy that showcases brilliantly why the world loved Doris Day...and still does.

I know a lot of people may say this movie is sexist,and it certainly does focus on a man's ego(which still exists within many men today)but this movie is one my all time favorites.I love Doris Day and James Garner was so attractive in this movie that they make a very sexy,cute couple.I love the atmosphere of comedies from the early 60's,nothing can compare to them today.As far as so many people making comments on older women not having babies in the 60's,tell that to my mom who had me in 1964 at the youthful age of 41.The commercials are a hoot that Doris does and her daughter is adorable!!I found the Spot Checker chick much more offensive,with her non-existent intelligence, than the sexist view of Mr.Garner in this movie. 9 out of 10 stars from me on this timeless gem of a movie.

I LOVE this movie. It's super kitschy, especially the '60s opening graphics, and the plot is really fun. Doris Day was at her most beautiful during this time period... the fashions she wears in this film are really stunning, and even the most casual outfits are classics. The "sexist" plot does annoy me a little - and I'm over 40 - but it's pretty typical Carl Reiner fare from this era. As most may recall, he was the force behind the Dick Van Dyke Show, which also reflected this attitude between Rob & Laura. As "hip" and sexy a couple as they were, Rob still didn't want Laura to work outside the home. I wish James Garner (as Dr. Boyer) could have relaxed and enjoyed his wife's career success a little... who wouldn't want more money?? But I suppose his resistance was crucial to the storyline here. Other than these minor points, this movie remains really good entertainment, well acted and with wonderful chemistry between Garner and Miss Day. Highly recommended!