Watch But Not for Me
- Approved
- 1959
- 1 hr 51 min
-
6.3 (583)
But Not for Me is a 1959 romantic comedy starring Clark Gable, Carroll Baker, and Lilli Palmer. The film centers around the life of a middle-aged Broadway producer named Russ Ward (played by Gable) who is struggling to keep his latest show afloat amidst mounting financial difficulties. Despite his chaotic professional life, Russ remains a charming and well-liked figure in the theater community, with many close friends who are always ready to help him out in times of need.
As the film progresses, Russ becomes increasingly involved in a romantic triangle between himself, a scheming young actress named Ellie (Baker), and an elegant European stage star named Katherine (Palmer). Ellie is a gorgeous and ambitious young woman who will do anything to further her own career, including manipulating Russ and using her feminine wiles to get ahead. Katherine, on the other hand, is a refined and cultured woman with whom Russ begins a whirlwind romance, but whose professional and personal obligations may prevent the relationship from truly taking off.
Throughout the movie, Russ must navigate the complexities of his love life while also dealing with the increasingly unstable financial situation of his latest show. His personal and professional lives intertwine as he struggles to come up with the money to keep the production afloat, all while juggling the attentions of two beautiful women who have their own agendas when it comes to their relationships with him.
Despite the challenges he faces, Russ maintains a positive outlook and a charismatic personality, making him a likable protagonist throughout the film. His interactions with the various characters in the story often lead to humorous and poignant moments, as he grapples with both his own desires and the realities of his situation.
The movie is set against the backdrop of New York City in the late 1950s, with many of the scenes taking place in iconic locations such as Times Square and the theater district. The colorful and bustling atmosphere of the city is used effectively to create a sense of energy and excitement, and serves as a fitting backdrop for the various dramas and comedic moments that play out throughout the film.
Overall, But Not for Me is a charming and entertaining romantic comedy that showcases the talents of its cast and captures the spirit of the era in which it was made. The film's blend of humor and heart makes it a pleasure to watch, and its themes of love, ambition, and personal growth resonate just as strongly today as they did when the movie was first released.
But Not for Me is a 1959 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.