Watch Let's Make It Legal

Let's Make It Legal is a 1951 romantic comedy directed by Richard Sale and starring the legendary Claudette Colbert, alongside Macdonald Carey and Zachary Scott. The film was produced by Twentieth Century-Fox and was well received upon its release in the summer of 1951. The story revolves around Miriam Halsworth (played by Claudette Colbert), who, after divorcing her husband Hugh (played by Macdonald Carey) two decades ago, has remarried Victor Macfarland (played by Zachary Scott). When her daughter who is now 17 returns from boarding school, she intends to marry her boyfriend who happens to be the son of her mother's ex-husband Hugh.

Hugh, who is still in love with Miriam, sees this as an opportunity to win her back, and together with his lawyer, he attempts to legally challenge the terms of their divorce, which granted Miriam alimony payable for LIFE. Victor, on the other hand, is also determined to keep his wife and uses all his resources to foil Hugh's plans.

All these come to a head during a big family celebration, where each of the characters is forced to confront past feelings and decide what truly matters to them.

The film is a delightful mix of classic Hollywood flair, witty humor, and timeless romantic themes. Claudette Colbert, who was known for her charming and elegant persona, plays Miriam with great skill, and gives a nuanced portrayal of a woman who is caught between her past and present. Macdonald Carey is perfectly cast as Hugh, the ex-husband who refuses to give up, and Zachary Scott is great as the dashing, but somewhat oblivious, Victor.

The film is also notable for its portrayal of family dynamics and the different ways people deal with love and loss. The teenage daughter, Barbara, played by a young Barbara Bates, is portrayed as a typical teen who is head over heels in love with her boyfriend but also struggles to navigate the complexities of her parents' divorce.

In addition, the film is richly layered with subtexts about society and gender roles. As a comedy, it never takes itself too seriously, but it also challenges some norms of the time, such as the notion that a woman's worth is tied to her marital status. Miriam's ability to stand her ground and assert her independence despite the pressures from the men around her is a refreshing take on female empowerment.

The film received positive reviews when it was released, with critics praising its witty dialogue, strong performances, and its ability to balance moments of humor and heartbreak. It also marked a departure for Claudette Colbert, who was a top box office draw in the 1930s and 1940s, but was nearing the end of her career. Her performance in Let's Make It Legal was a reminder of her enduring talent and charm, and the film remains a delightful part of her legacy.

Overall, Let's Make It Legal is a charming, feel-good film that offers a window into a different era of Hollywood. It is a perfect example of classic romantic comedy, complete with witty banter, hijinks, and unforgettable characters. If you are a fan of old Hollywood or just looking for a lighthearted movie that will make you smile, then Let's Make It Legal is the perfect choice.

Let's Make It Legal is a 1951 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.