Watch Love with the Proper Stranger

Love with the Proper Stranger is a classic romantic comedy-drama film that was released in 1963, directed by Robert Mulligan and starring Natalie Wood, Steve McQueen, and Edie Adams. Set in New York City, the movie tells the story of Angie Rossini (Natalie Wood), a salesgirl at Macy's department store who becomes pregnant after spending a one-night stand with a musician named Rocky Papasano (Steve McQueen). The two embark on a turbulent and emotional journey as they try to navigate through their relationship, both as individuals and as a couple.

The film opens with Angie Rossini wandering the streets of New York City, distressed and looking for a solution to her plight. She has found herself pregnant, but the father of the child is someone she barely knows, Rocky Papasano, a musician whom she met at a party. After being told that an abortion would be too expensive, she turns to her brother for help. In an attempt to save his sister from shame, her brother convinces her to marry someone else, someone who is more suitable, financially stable, and ready to settle down.

But Angie is not ready to give up her love for Rocky Papasano so easily. She tracks him down at his workplace and confronts him, telling him about their child and asking for his help. Rocky, who is initially resistant to the idea of marriage and fatherhood, eventually relents and agrees to support Angie and their child.

Despite their best efforts, the relationship between Angie and Rocky is far from smooth. They come from different backgrounds, with different values and lifestyles. Angie is from an Italian-American family, while Rocky is a musician who has lived a nomadic life, traveling from place to place. They struggle to understand each other's priorities and to find common ground. They experience moments of joy and happiness, but also moments of frustration and anger.

Adding to the chaos of their situation is Rocky's ex-girlfriend, who is jealous of Angie's relationship with Rocky and does her best to come between them. Meanwhile, Angie's family is pressuring her to marry her stable, dependable boyfriend, and they disapprove of her relationship with Rocky.

As the due date of their child approaches, Angie and Rocky must decide what to do next. Can they find a way to compromise and come together as a family, or will their differences ultimately tear them apart? The film explores themes of love, family, sacrifice, and the complex dynamics of relationships.

One of the standout elements of the film is the chemistry between Natalie Wood and Steve McQueen. Their performances are natural and believable, and they bring an authenticity and depth to their characters that make the story all the more compelling. Edie Adams also shines as the meddling ex-girlfriend who adds an extra layer of tension to an already complicated situation.

The film is shot in black and white, which adds to its classic and timeless appeal. The scenes featuring the streets of New York City are particularly striking, capturing the energy and vibrancy of the city in the early 1960s.

Overall, Love with the Proper Stranger is a touching and honest portrayal of love and its complexities. It is a testament to the power of connection and the human spirit's ability to overcome obstacles and find fulfillment in unexpected places.

Love with the Proper Stranger is a 1963 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.