That Wonderful Urge (1948) | American comedy film directed by Robert B. Sinclair

"That Wonderful Urge" is a 1948 American comedy film directed by Robert B. Sinclair. Starring Tyrone Power and Gene Tierney, the film is a romantic comedy that explores the dynamics of the media industry and the clash between sensationalism and journalistic integrity.

Steve Farraugh (Tyrone Power) is a successful newspaper editor who finds himself at odds with wealthy socialite and newspaper owner Margaret Rankin (Gene Tierney). Margaret wants the paper to focus on sensational stories and scandalous headlines to boost circulation. Steve, on the other hand, believes in responsible journalism and refuses to compromise his principles.

In an effort to teach Margaret a lesson about the consequences of sensationalism, Steve decides to create a fictional character named "John Doe No. 23." He plants stories about this non-existent individual, creating a public sensation. The fabricated stories involve Doe's supposed arrival in town and his interactions with various people.

As the public becomes captivated by the mysterious John Doe No. 23, Margaret becomes intrigued by the potential for increased sales. However, the situation becomes complicated when a real-life John Doe (Reginald Gardiner) appears, claiming to be the person from the stories. The ensuing confusion leads to a series of comedic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements.

The film explores themes of ethics in journalism, the power of the media, and the consequences of blurring the lines between reality and fiction. As the story unfolds, both Steve and Margaret must grapple with the impact of their actions on the community and their own lives.

"That Wonderful Urge" is a lighthearted romantic comedy that uses the backdrop of the media industry to explore ethical dilemmas and the pursuit of truth in journalism. Tyrone Power and Gene Tierney bring charm and chemistry to their respective roles, adding depth to the comedic and romantic aspects of the film.

The movie reflects the post-World War II era's fascination with the media and the influence of newspapers in shaping public opinion. The clash between responsible journalism and sensationalism is a central theme, and the film uses humor to convey its message about the importance of integrity in the press.

While "That Wonderful Urge" may not be as well-known as some other classic romantic comedies of its time, it remains an enjoyable and entertaining film. The performances, witty dialogue, and the exploration of media ethics contribute to the film's appeal, making it a pleasant watch for fans of classic Hollywood comedies.