This superb domestic comedy brilliantly illustrates a fond father’s reactions to the many problems – mostly financial – which arise during preparations for his only daughter’s wedding.
Middle-class lawyer Stanley T. Banks (Spencer Tracy) has two sons, Tommy (Russ Tamblyn) and Ben (Tom Irish), and one daughter, Kay (Elizabeth Taylor). When Kay suddenly announces that she is going to marry Buckley Dunstan (Don Taylor), a youth whom Stanley has never seen, Stanley nearly has a fit.
Kay’s mother, Ellie (Joan Bennett), quietens Stanley and, after he meets Buckley’s parents, he gives his consent. Then come the preparations and these, involving much expense, continually cause Stanley to panic.
In the excitement of the wedding breakfast, Kay goes off without wishing her father goodbye, but she rings up in time to soothe his aching heart. Stanley finds consolation in the thought that it will be his turn to laugh when Tommy gets spliced.
The crowded chapter of incidents, delightfully handled by Spencer Tracy, Elizabeth Taylor and an attractive supporting cast and faultlessly directed by Vincente Minnelli, never flags.
A hilarious 1991 remake starred Steve Martin, Diane Keaton and Martin Short.
Stanley T. Banks
Spencer Tracy Ellie Banks
Joan Bennett Kay Banks
Elizabeth Taylor Buckley Dunstan
Don Taylor Doris Dunstan
Billie Burke Mr Massoula
Leo G. Carroll Herbert Dunstan
Moroni Olsen Mr Tringle
Melville Cooper Warner
Taylor Holmes Rev. Galsworthy
Paul Harvey Joe
Frank Orth Tommy Banks
Russ Tamblyn Ben Banks
Tom Irish Delilah
Marietta Canty
Director
Vincente Minnelli
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