The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964)

This is clearly a film that divides people straight down the line - love/hate.For me two things stand out. The superb orchestrations which probably had something to do with Roger Eden's producing credit. And the two brilliantly staged big musical numbers "Belly up to the bar boys" and "He's my friend". Unlike some of the reviewers here, I think Peter Gennaro was one of the greatest film choreographers and his work here is fantastic. Look how the two dances absolutely suit the characters and situations and how sheer exuberant energy combines with precise footwork so it looks as if the dancers are making it up. And can anyone tell me if a couple of the dancing girls in the bar-room number are actually men in drag? Very witty and clever.

Apparently the survivor of some boating mishap, "Molly" appears in a wooden crib on a rocky patch of the Colorado River. The talkative baby girl crawls ashore and is taken in by Irish alcoholic Ed Begley (as Shamus Tobin). After growing up to be dirty tomboy Debbie Reynolds (as Molly) in a vibrant red wig, she is advised, "Learn to serve God and a hot breakfast." After skinny dipping one day, Ms. Reynolds meets blond baritone Harve Presnell (as John "Johnny" Brown) and is invited to spend the night in his cabin. But Reynolds is interested in money, not men. Finally, Mr. Presnell is able to woo Reynolds with riches, but her backwoods vulgarity is shunned by their Pennsylvania Avenue mansion neighbors..."The Unsinkable Molly Brown" was Meredith Willson's follow-up to "The Music Man" which guaranteed it much attention. It was a Broadway hit for Tammy Grimes and Presnell, who recreates his role nicely for the film. The leading role was passed from Shirley MacLaine to Debbie Reynolds, who were box office stars in 1964 (positioned at #7 and #12 in the "Quigley Publications" annual poll that year). Grimes won a "Tony" for her performance, and Reynolds was considered for a "Best Actress" award. She is certainly energetic, but this performance is overrated. Reynolds yells rather than sings her songs, and Mr. Willson's soundtrack is strikingly inferior to "The Music Man". And the story is superficial...Don't expect much from the "Titanic" connection. This film's recommended for other reasons. "He's My Friend" is the highlight - choreographed by Peter Gennaro, it can be seen after about 1:45 of running time. Especially noteworthy are two "West Side Story" dancers, stage "Jet" Grover Dale and film "Shark" Gus Trikonis. Also in some opening scenes, the men are probably more remembered today (by "insiders") for their personal relationships with Tony Perkins and Goldie Hawn; they are spectacular here, and get a good amount of screen, if not speaking, time. Also noteworthy is the coupling of Mr. Begley with Hermione Baddeley, and a delightfully snooty characterization by Audrey Christie.****** The Unsinkable Molly Brown (6/11/64) Charles Walters ~ Debbie Reynolds, Harve Presnell, Grover Dale, Gus Trikonis

"The Unsinkable Molly Brown" made its debut on Broadway in 1960. Tammy Grimes, as the Molly Brown of the title, received, perhaps, the best reviews of her acting career. When it was made into an MGM musical, Miss Grimes, lost her creation to Debbie Reynolds, who had a bigger name and was a favorite of the movie going public.Meredith Wilson, the man behind another hit, "The Music Man", created a musical comedy that showcased a fictionalized account of the larger than life character of Molly, a woman who went from humble beginnings to bigger, and better things. As a matter of fact, she was truly "unsinkable" as proved by having survived the Titanic disaster.Not having seen this film for quite some time, didn't quite make it for this viewer, on a second viewing, in spite of glowing comments from other IMDb contributors. However, it must be noted, our memory of having seen it before was more positive than the impression we got in watching it again. Part of the problem is the plot, which is silly, in the way the material is presented. Then again, this film has a dated feeling.Debbie Reynolds threw herself into the role of Molly with gusto. It's one of her best achievements in the movies, and it should be recognized. Herve Presnell, who played Johnny Brown on Broadway, seemed destined for bigger and better things, as he shows here with his handsome looks and powerful singing voice. The cast includes several character actors that enhance the movie, notably, Ed Begley, Hermione Baddeley, Jack Krushen and Martita Hunt, among others.The film could be seen as a curiosity, although it shows its age. The songs, with only a few exceptions don't have the quality of other Meredith Wilson's work. Only a couple of songs stay with the viewer after all is said and done. Charles Walters' direction was not too inspired and perhaps that seems to be the basic flaw with this "Molly".

"The Unsinkable Molly Brown" is a well written, well acted movie. But for some reason, every time I watch this movie, it reminds me of another brilliant movie before this: Gone With the Wind. "TUMB" is, to sum it up, a movie about a women that doesn't want to live without money...much like Scarlett O'Hara. Molly ends up changing her views and personality because of the money, and who she wants to impress. But of course, "TUMB" is unique it its own way, and should be more recognized. Molly is a likable character, and has a very funny personality, while what she says is hilarious. JJ Brown, her husband is as likable as well, but we should have seen much more of him. In the end it turns into a likable romance classic, that you will easily remember for a long time to come.