Get Yourself A College Girl

Get Yourself A College Girl is a vibrant, peppy, and merry blend of two popular genres of the 1960s – campus comedy and the musical. The movie is a part of the beach party boom, an iconic genre of popular American films prevalent in the '60s, and adds a fresh twist with the backdrop of a snowy ski resort instead of a sandy beach and the inclusion of several interesting musical cameos. This light-hearted film directed by Sidney Miller was produced by Samuel Z. Arkoff and James H Nicholson.

The story is centered around Terry Taylor, played by Miss America 1959, actress Mary Ann Mobley. Terry is a young, gifted songwriter and student at the fictional all-girl Wyndham College. She has been secretly penning popular hits for the swingin' rock 'n' roll scene and comes under fire when the college administration gets wind of her pursuits. The college, having a traditional image to uphold, does not look kindly upon a student involved in the pop music industry and Terry is faced with the daunting prospect of expulsion.

However, Terry and her lively cohort including Lynne, played by Joan O'Brien, and Sue Ann, played by pop singer, Nancy Sinatra, set off on a winter vacation to a lively ski resort. The resort just so happens to be hosting a festival following a songwriting contest with an enticing prize - the opportunity to have their songs performed by renowned musicians in a live concert. The group of college friends are not only looking for a fun-filled holiday but are on the mission to save Terry's music career. Disguising their true identities, they throw themselves into an uproarious whirlwind of romance, comedy, and music as they traverse the challenging path of pleasing the college administration and keeping Terry's dreams alive.

Peppered with a sparkling soundtrack that forms an integral part of the plot, the narrative continuously teases the audience with catchy tunes, dance numbers, and performances from real-life musicians. Some of the most celebrated bands and artists of the '60s make an appearance in the movie. This includes The Standells, The Animals, with their iconic hit "The House of the Rising Sun", jazz musician Jimmy Smith, and garage rock legends, The Dave Clark Five. Nancy Sinatra also gets a chance to showcase her singing chops on screen.

Mary Ann Mobley, with her undeniable charm and screen presence, delivers a delightful performance as the ambitious and talented songwriter caught between her love for music and the rigid college rules. The chemistry between the lead trio – Mobley, O'Brien, and Sinatra - is palpable and they successfully carry the narrative on their capable shoulders.

The screenplay is punctuated with witty dialogs, and the fun dynamics between the characters make Get Yourself a College Girl an enjoyable watch. Despite being a women-centered movie in the relatively conservative '60 and speaking of a widely seen as unconventional profession for women back then, the film does not preach. It delivers its message in a light, sometimes satirical tone.

It entails an underlying theme that pushes for girls' right to choose to live freely and the pursuit of their dreams. It subtly comments on the systematic stigmatization of women in the music industry and by extension, other unconventional choices of career. But the movie primarily remains a musical comedy, ensuring an entertaining, feel-good experience for audiences.

In conclusion, Get Yourself a College Girl is an entertaining blend of comedy, drama, music, and a slice of '60s nostalgia. It serves up familiar themes and conflicts but in a fresh and engaging context. With a spirited lead trio, a vibrant supporting cast, delightful music, a charming winter backdrop, and a robust comic backdrop, this film seeks to capture the charisma, energy, and challenges characteristic of college life in the '60s. Whether you're a fan of the unique movie style of the swinging '60s, lovers of old-school musicals, or those seeking a hearty, feel-good movie, Get Yourself a College Girl might just be the ticket.