That Touch of Mink

US (1962): Romance/Comedy

When people refer to Doris Day as "the world's oldest professional virgin," they generally have this 1962 comedy in mind. It isn't that Doris is above a bit of hanky-panky; it's just that she wants such tangibles as a marriage license and wedding ring first. Thus, when playboy businessman Cary Grant begins actively pursuing Day (they "met cute" when Grant's limo splashed mud on the hapless Day), she won't say "I will" until he says "I do." She is of the idealistic opinion that she can bring out the best intentions in him, even when he repeatedly tips off his worst intentions by inviting her to accompany him to Philadelphia, Baltimore and Bermuda. After not a few complications and misunderstandings, Day finally finagles a proposal out of Grant. The film is essentially much ado about nothing, but it is so well-acted and attractively photographed that the audiences are willing to go along for the ride. The high-powered supporting cast includes Gig Young as Grant's moralistic financial advisor, Audrey Meadows as Day's wise-cracking roommate, Alan Hewitt as a confused psychiatrist, John Astin as Day's slimy would-be beau, Dick Sargent as a neurotic honeymooner, and an unbilled Richard Deacon as an all-around letch. Best scene: the baseball-dugout rhubarb involving New York Yankees Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris and Yogi Berra. Delbert Mann directs. (Arwin-Granley-Nob Hill/U-I) (Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide)

 Use this link to view the original theatrical trailer for That Touch of Mink on TCM.com.

3 nominations