Father Takes a Wife

It's hard to imagine that this enjoyable comedy lost money when it debuted, as it's witty and fun. However, lost money it did.

"Father Takes a Wife" begins with Freddie (Adolph Menjou) behaving like a love-struck teen--even though he's in his 50s and the head of a major shipping company. He doesn't care, as he's planning on marrying Leslie (Gloria Swanson). But, there is a slight problem--both Freddie and Leslie are rather stubborn and several times this leads to problems. The first is minor and occurs on their wedding day. The second, and MUCH more serious, begin during their honeymoon. An incredibly egotistical 'singing genius', Carlos (Desi Arnez), stows away on their ship. At first the couple befriend him, as Carlos is quite charming. However, their friendship and patience is tested when he moves in with them and Leslie decides to be his sponsor. Not surprisingly, Freddie is jealous--not just because she could be having an affair but because he feels so left out! Now you'd think things would get better when Freddie's grown children take Carlos in, but it doesn't. What's next for this young old couple?

This is a great example of a film whose plot is ridiculous BUT you can really enjoy the film if you turn off your brain and don't think about this. This is because the characters are wonderful (especially Arnez and Helen Broderick) and the dialog very clever and funny. A nice little time-passer.