Sitting Pretty (1948) | American comedy film directed by Walter Lang

"Sitting Pretty" is a 1948 American comedy film directed by Walter Lang. The film stars Clifton Webb, Maureen O'Hara, and Robert Young in lead roles. The story revolves around a peculiar and sophisticated houseguest who creates chaos in the lives of a suburban family.

Plot Summary:
Harry King (Clifton Webb), an eccentric and erudite man, responds to an advertisement seeking a babysitter for a couple's three children. The couple, Tacey (Maureen O'Hara) and Grant Trimble (Robert Young), are initially skeptical but decide to hire Harry due to his articulate and convincing manner. However, they soon discover that Harry is not a typical babysitter. He is more of a houseguest who brings a unique, refined, and unconventional perspective to their lives.

Harry's presence in the Trimble household causes a series of comedic situations as he provides unorthodox advice, challenges societal norms, and turns the family dynamics upside down. While some family members appreciate his influence, others are skeptical and concerned about the impact he might have on their lives.

As Harry becomes more ingrained in the family's daily affairs, he reveals a surprising depth of character and wisdom that forces the Trimble family to reassess their values and priorities. The film explores themes of societal expectations, individuality, and the importance of unconventional thinking.

Review:
"Sitting Pretty" is a witty and charming comedy that benefits greatly from Clifton Webb's standout performance as the eccentric and intellectually superior Harry King. Webb's portrayal adds a sophisticated touch to the character, making him both humorous and endearing. The film's success hinges on the contrast between Webb's refined character and the more conventional suburban setting.

The screenplay, written by F. Hugh Herbert and based on a novel by Gwen Davenport, is filled with clever dialogue and situational humor. The film strikes a balance between lighthearted comedy and moments of genuine emotion, creating an engaging and entertaining narrative.

Walter Lang's direction ensures a smooth flow of the narrative, allowing the characters to evolve and the humor to resonate. The supporting cast, including Maureen O'Hara and Robert Young, contributes to the film's overall charm, providing a solid foundation for Webb's standout performance.

"Sitting Pretty" was successful both critically and commercially upon its release and led to two sequels, further showcasing the enduring appeal of the characters and the unique charm of the film. Overall, "Sitting Pretty" remains a classic example of a character-driven comedy, with Clifton Webb's memorable performance elevating it to a level of enduring popularity in the realm of classic Hollywood comedies.