Watch Frankie and Johnny

I apologize for any confusion, but there appears to be some discrepancies in the request. "Frankie and Johnny" from 1966 indeed stars Elvis Presley, but the female lead opposite him is Donna Douglas in a television context best known for "The Beverly Hillbillies." In the movie "Frankie and Johnny," the female lead is actually played by Nancy Sinatra. Harry Morgan, also mentioned, is not connected to this film. If you are referring to an alternate version or have other actors in mind, please let me know. In the meantime, I will provide a description of "Frankie and Johnny" starring Elvis Presley and Nancy Sinatra.

"Frankie and Johnny" is a 1966 musical film that blends romance, comedy, and the charm of the Old South's riverboat culture, starring the iconic Elvis Presley and Nancy Sinatra. Set in the early 1900s, the story follows the life and loves aboard a luxurious paddle steamer making its way down the Mississippi River.

At the heart of the film is Johnny (Elvis Presley), a charismatic and somewhat impulsive riverboat gambler with an eye for the ladies. Frankie (Nancy Sinatra) plays Johnny’s long-suffering girlfriend and singing partner—both of them perform as entertainers on the riverboat's stage. Johnny's gambling habits and flirtatious nature continually test their relationship, leading to comedic skirmishes and tender reconciliations set to the backdrop of lively musical numbers.

The film taps into the rich tradition of American folk songs, with the title itself referring to the classic ballad that recounts the tale of a woman named Frankie who was betrayed by her lover Johnny. While the narrative of the movie doesn't closely follow the ballad's grim story, it uses the themes of love, jealousy, and loyalty to weave its own lighter plot.

The chemistry between Frankie and Johnny is palpable but troubled. Frankie is deeply in love with Johnny, but she struggles with trust issues due to his gambling addiction and wandering eye. Johnny, for his part, truly cares for Frankie but is ensnared by his own weaknesses, leading to misunderstandings and romantic turmoil. As they navigate their relationship, the colorful characters and vibrant atmosphere of the riverboat add layers of complexity to their story.

The musical sequences are central to the movie’s appeal, showcasing a variety of Elvis' musical talents, blending heartfelt ballads with upbeat numbers that get the audience’s feet tapping. Sinatra, too, lends her vocal talents to the mix, providing a mix of songs that showcases the range of the film's duo. The era's rich cultural tapestry is displayed through the costumes and set designs, replete with period-appropriate garb and the ornately decorated riverboat that seems to be a character in its own right.

Supporting characters add to the film's nostalgic charm and comedic aspects, including Johnny's wise-cracking sidekick Cully (Harry Morgan), who tries to keep Johnny’s feet on the ground and his head out of trouble. His advice, both in matters of money and the heart, is often ignored but never unappreciated. There are also various gambler characters who frequent the riverboat casino, each contributing to the atmosphere of light-hearted mischief and exuberance.

As Johnny and Frankie's relationship ebbs and flows with the currents of the Mississippi, the story delves slightly into themes of fate and superstition. A gypsy fortune teller aboard the ship predicts that a redheaded woman will bring Johnny luck, propelling much of the plot as Johnny seeks out this mysterious figure to turn his fortunes around. This subplot serves as a catalyst for many of the film's comedic mishaps and misunderstandings, as well as giving the audience a look into the superstitions that were part of the gambling culture of the time.

The film's denouement follows a traditional structure of romantic comedies, aiming to leave the audience on a high note after an emotional rollercoaster. Will Johnny overcome his vices to win back the heart of the woman he loves? Can Frankie trust Johnny to be the man she needs him to be? "Frankie and Johnny" plays with these questions, inviting the audience into a world where love and loyalty are put to the test against a backdrop of catchy songs and the grandeur of the riverboat setting.

Directed by Frederick De Cordova, known for his expertise in handling musical and comedic elements, "Frankie and Johnny" captures the essence of an era through its music, storytelling, and performances by its compelling leads. As a part of the Elvis Presley filmography, it stands out as an endearing piece of cinematic history that’s flavored with the unmistakable charisma of the King of Rock and Roll himself.

Frankie and Johnny is a 1965 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.