Watch The Glass Bottom Boat

The Glass Bottom Boat is a 1966 romantic comedy film directed by Frank Tashlin and starring Doris Day, Rod Taylor, and Arthur Godfrey. The film is set in Southern California, and revolves around Jennifer Nelson (Doris Day), a talented and ambitious public relations executive who meets and falls in love with Bruce Templeton (Rod Taylor), a dashing space scientist. Their romance, however, is complicated by several misunderstandings and Jennifer's unfortunate habit of getting into trouble.

The film opens with Jennifer working at a fish tank manufacturing plant that happens to provide glass-bottomed boats for tourists. Bruce Templeton, who is attempting to launch a highly classified space project, visits the site, and to impress him, Jennifer decides to go on one of the glass-bottomed boats. However, she accidentally loses her bikini top, which slowly descends into the depths of the ocean, much to the amusement of the tourists on the boat.

Bruce is intrigued by Jennifer's amusing and carefree nature, and is soon drawn into her world, which includes an eccentric mother (played by the renowned comedian and television host, Ruth Gordon), who is obsessed with ESP and other supernatural phenomena, and some quirky co-workers.

As the two begin to pursue a romantic relationship, Bruce's colleagues grow suspicious of Jennifer's motives, and they begin to investigate her background. Bruce's secretary, who is in love with him, also adds to the confusion by revealing some untruthful information about Jennifer. This leads to a series of hilarious misunderstandings and a madcap climax that involves Jennifer and her colleagues smuggling themselves aboard a space rocket.

Doris Day delivers a delightful performance as Jennifer, infusing the character with her signature warmth and charm. Day's natural comedic timing is also on full display, as she handles the many comedic situations with effortless ease. Rod Taylor also shines as the debonair and witty Bruce, adding just the right amount of charisma and charm to the character.

The supporting cast of The Glass Bottom Boat is equally exceptional. Arthur Godfrey, the famous radio and television personality, plays Chester, Jennifer's boss, with his usual dry wit and impeccable timing. The doting mother, played by Ruth Gordon, is a hoot, with her constant references to ESP and a series of highly amusing mishaps.

The film's greatest strength, however, is its witty and well-crafted script. Written by ever-reliable Everett Freeman, the screenplay is packed with snappy one-liners, clever sight gags, and hilarious situations that make the film a joy to watch.

The film also benefits from its Southern California setting, which provides a stunning backdrop to the action. Whether it is the glass-bottomed boats or the space laboratories, every location is beautifully captured, thanks to the crisp cinematography of Leon Shamroy.

In addition, the film's score, composed by Frank DeVol, is delightful, especially the charming title song, sung by the talented Doris Day.

In conclusion, The Glass Bottom Boat is a wonderfully enjoyable romantic comedy, which boasts a delightful cast, a well-crafted script, and stunning visuals. The film proves to be an ideal showcase for Doris Day's talents, and a testament to her enduring popularity. With its whimsical humor and lighthearted tone, The Glass Bottom Boat is a film that will delight audiences of all ages.

The Glass Bottom Boat is a 1966 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.