Ingrid Bergman, lured back to Hollywood after a 20-year absence, is the late-blooming flower in this pleasantly sophisticated comedy.
She plays Stephanie Dickinson, a super-efficient dental receptionist nurse, who steps in to help her boss in a problematic dilemma.
The dentist, Dr Julian Winston, played by Walter Matthau, is a happy bachelor – but he has told his mistress, Toni (Goldie Hawn), that he is married and a father, but that his wife is unfaithful.
His dilemma occurs when Toni, a kookie blonde, attempts suicide, but is saved by a neighbour.
Visibly shaken, Julian tells her they will marry. Not wanting to be a home-wrecker, Toni insists on meeting Julian’s wife.
This is where Stephanie comes in. Julian wants her to pose as his unfaithful wife.
But where Stephanie had been unnoticed and unnoticeable to Julian before, the effect of being his wife – even by proxy – causes her to flower beautifully, so that even Toni can tell that Julian really loves his “wife”.
Excellent characterisations from an experienced cast bring this Broadway stage success amusingly to life on the screen.
It also introduces Goldie Hawn of TV’s Laugh-Inseries, and she makes a good start on the road to film fame. She won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Toni Simmons
Dr Julian Winston
Walter Matthau Stephanie Dickinson
Ingrid Bergman Toni Simmons
Goldie Hawn Harvey Greenfield
Jack Weston Igor Sullivan
Rick Lenz Señor Arturo Sanchez
Vito Scotti Mrs Durant
Irene Hervey Georgia
Eve Bruce Mr Shirley
Irwin Charone Miss Dickinson’s Nephew
Matthew Saks
Director
Gene Saks
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She plays Stephanie Dickinson, a super-efficient dental receptionist nurse, who steps in to help her boss in a problematic dilemma.
But where Stephanie had been unnoticed and unnoticeable to Julian before, the effect of being his wife – even by proxy – causes her to flower beautifully, so that even Toni can tell that Julian really loves his “wife”.
