It Happens Every Spring

It Happens Every Spring is a delightful, feel-good classic comedy from 1949 that whimsically combines the allure of America's most popular sport, baseball, with a sweet touch of romantic drama. The film was directed by Lloyd Bacon and stars an exceptional ensemble cast including Oscar-winner Ray Milland, Jean Peters, and Paul Douglas.

The story revolves around Vernon Simpson, played expertly by Ray Milland, who is a passionate and ever-.engaged professor of chemistry at a Midwestern University. While university life has its charms, Vernon's true devotion lies in baseball, and he's an ardent follower of the Saint Louis Cardinals. His love life, on the other hand, features the charming Deborah Greenleaf, portrayed by Jean Peters, who is the daughter of the university president.

In an accident at the chemistry lab, Vernon stumbles upon an incredible discovery. It's a repellent, a chemical compound that repels wood. Being an ardent baseball fan and a resourceful mind, Vernon tests this on a baseball and voila, the baseball dished out with this unique repellent would swing away from any wooden bat. A breakthrough in sports technology, you might say, but Vernon decides to keep this secret to himself for the time being.

Vernon sees this as an opportunity to combine his profession with his passion for baseball. In a very peculiar move, Vernon leaves his secure life as a professor behind and tries out for a spot on the Saint Louis Cardinals, under the pseudonym Kelly. A man in his thirties with no professional baseball experience does sound a bit off, but Vernon's secret weapon, the treated baseball, gives him an exceptional edge and transforms him into a striking wonder in the team.

As Vernon's baseball career flourishes, he juggles his double life with both excitement and fear. On one hand, he enjoys the thrill of playing professional baseball and achieving what looked like an impossible dream, but on the other hand, he's constantly worried about being found out. Will his secret be discovered? Will it jeopardize his chance at love with Deborah?

Alongside Milland, Jean Peters, known for her beauty and acting prowess, provides a perfect romantic interest as Deborah. Her character is sensitive, sweet, yet equally strong as she navigates the uncertainties surrounding Vernon's sudden disappearance and the mysterious rise of this unseen baseball star, Kelly.

Adding to the roster is Paul Douglas, playing Monk Lanigan, the catcher for the Cardinals who becomes Vernon's roommate. Douglas's character adds an extra layer to the story, providing both comic relief and emotional depth. His relationship with Vernon and his growing suspicion about his roommate's incredible pitching skills add intrigue and humor to the film.

It Happens Every Spring also packs a ton of high-intensity, fun-filled baseball sequences that will undoubtedly entertain sports lovers as well as fans of vintage cinema. The narrative also cleverly amalgamates elements of romance, comedy, and drama, making it a heartwarming watch for all types of movie enthusiasts.

The direction by Lloyd Bacon is admirable, who skillfully manoeuvres the storyline from campus labs to the pulsating baseball stadium while maintaining a consistent pace and an engaging narrative. The screenplay by Valentine Davies is filled with humor and charm that perfectly showcase the quirky, ambitious spirit best exemplified by Vernon's character.

In terms of technical aspects, It Happens Every Spring showcases commendable cinematography which successfully captures the aura of late 1940s America along with the thrill of baseball matches. The use of special effects, although minimal by present standards, is worth mentioning, especially the scenes involving the 'rebellious' baseball.

To sum up, It Happens Every Spring is an overflowing treat of laughter, drama, romance, and sports, magnified by commendable performances, an engaging narrative, and at the core, a very novel concept. This film might be the perfect pick for everyone who appreciates the simplicity and elegance of classic Hollywood movies while enjoying an evening filled with laughter and fun, capped with the wholesome appeal of America's favorite pastime - baseball.