It Happened to Jane

It Happened to Jane is a charming 1959 comedy film that stars cinema icons Doris Day, Jack Lemmon, and Ernie Kovacs. This movie's story bears a levity that feels organic and fitting for its time, with its themes of small-town livelihood, corporate power, and maintaining integrity despite challenging odds.

Our story takes place in the quaint town of Cape Anne, Maine, centered around our protagonist Jane Osgood, played by quintessential 1950s star Doris Day. Jane is a widowed mother of two who runs her own small-scale lobster business to provide for her family. She's a beloved figure in her community, full of spirit, warmth, and grit.

The drama ensues when Jane receives a shipment of three hundred live lobsters that arrive dead due to a delayed transit caused by the E&P railroad corporation. This incident disrupts her small business's seamless operation, and Jane, in her determined effort to seek justice, decides to fight this corporate giant, setting in motion a series of events that bring comedy, romance, and resilience to the fore.

Enter George Denham, Jane's lawyer and love interest, played charmingly by the inimitable Jack Lemmon. While initially hesitant to tackle the corporate tycoon, George is eventually swayed by Jane's determination and tenacity. The resultant legal struggle is the spine of the movie, it's where Jane's fight for justice becomes a small-town cause célèbre, and George's infatuation with Jane blooms into something more significant.

But in every story, there needs to be an antagonist that meshes well with the protagonists, and "It Happened to Jane" expertly provides this with Harry Foster Malone, played by Ernie Kovacs. He is the railroad tycoon who spars with Jane and George, and his character provides a solid foil to the rural idealism embodied by Jane and her fellows. Malone is ruthless, cunning, and epitomizes everything wrong with unchecked corporate power.

Throughout the film, the chemistry between Doris Day and Jack Lemmon keeps audiences hooked, and their performances are nothing short of delightful. Day, with her iconic comedic timing and emotional nuance, plays Jane with sincere authenticity. She paints Jane as a symbol of resolve, warmth, humor, and determination. On the other hand, Lemmon portrays George with his classic charm and flair, creating a lovable character who increasingly finds his humility and courage throughout the story.

As for Ernie Kovacs, he makes an impressive adversary. His unique comic style adds depth to the ruthlessness of his character, making Harry Foster Malone unforgettable.

What makes "It Happened to Jane" an enduring classic is the lovely meshing of its storyline, performances, comedic moments, romantic subplots, and social commentary on the importance of standing up against injustice, no matter how dominating the opponent might be. Viewers will enjoy the movie's beautiful setting, the often hilarious courtroom scenes, the unfolding of a sweet love story, and a feel-good climax that leaves one smiling.

Moreover, this movie takes us on a trip down memory lane to a time when simple, effective storytelling could captivate an audience. Filmed in gorgeous Technicolor, the movie offers an ambiance that will make you feel nostalgic for simpler times. Its charm lies not only in its unforgettable performances but also in its optimistic portrayal of a small town's unity, self-reliance, and fight for justice.

In conclusion, "It Happened to Jane" is an amiable, well-acted, well-scripted movie that revolves around the little engine that could, taking on the big bad corporate wolf. It's a light-hearted experience filled with humor, romance, drama, and invaluable life lessons, brought to life through the splendid performances of Doris Day, Jack Lemmon, and Ernie Kovacs. So, whether you're a fan of old classics or a curious newbie to the realm of 50's cinema, this movie should be one to check out.