Love with the Proper Stranger

Love with the Proper Stranger from 1963 is a classic romantic film that breathes life into the drama, romance, and societal thresholds of its era in an extraordinary manner. The film features remarkable performances from two talented actors of Hollywood's golden epoch, Natalie Wood and Steve McQueen, who seamlessly portray the turbulent, unorthodox romantic relationship central to the plot. Also featuring in the movie is Edie Adams, who empathetically embodies the essence of a supportive figure needed within the intricate storyline.

The film is directed by the gifted Robert Mulligan, known for his adept storytelling skills. His masterful direction contributes greatly to the overall aesthetics of Love with the Proper Stranger, perfectly capturing the essence of 60s-era drama. Mulligan successfully complements the romantic subtext with elements of societal commentary and morality issues.

In this movie, Natalie Wood plays Angie Rossini, a charming young woman working in a Macy’s salesclerk role. Wood delivers a captivating performance as Angie, portraying a complex character caught up in a difficult situation. She is vulnerable yet strong, naive yet wiser because of her experiences.

Steve McQueen, on the other hand, plays the handsome, laid-back musician Rocky Papasano. McQueen's performance is enticing as he exhibits a perfect balance of flamboyance and negligence initially and transitions to a sense of responsibility and maturity as the plot unravels. His portrayal of Rocky's character development is one of the movie's highlights, showing his acting prowess.

The story begins when Angie finds herself pregnant after a one-night stand with Rocky, igniting the spark of this unexpected love story. However, Rocky remembers little about the encounter, he does not shy away from helping Angie when she appeals to him for assistance. What follows is a whirlwind journey that leads Angie and Rocky through unexpected avenues.

Angie and Rocky confront societal norms, personal turmoil, and possessive family influences, giving the film a unique touch of circa-60's realism. Their enforced togetherness sparks an unlikely romance between them. As they navigate the many obstacles in their path, both characters undergo significant transformations. love isn’t the immediate by-product of their situation, but a slow burn that unfurls as they spend time together, enabling viewers to witness the gradual development of their relationship.

However, it's not all about the romantic storyline. Love with The Proper Stranger also explores the societal predicaments of the time. It thoughtfully addresses the stigma of unwed pregnancy and the constraints imposed on women by societal norms. It also addresses the cultural expectations faced by Angie, a daughter of Italian immigrants trying to break free from the familial and cultural pressures to marry a man of her parents' choice.

The movie evokes strong performances from the supporting cast too. Edie Adams, featuring as Barbie, adds another dynamic layer as Rocky's ex-girlfriend. Unwilling to let go and caught in a complex emotional web of her own, Barbie's character brings a dash of flavorsome melodrama into an already riveting storyline.

Furthermore, the film is set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City. The cinematography holds the essence of the 60s, offering audiences a visually pleasing aesthetic. Love with the Proper Stranger is inherently melodramatic, but it masterfully steers clear of excessive sentimentality, becoming more relatable and engaging to the viewers.

Moreover, the film is complemented by beautifully scored music by maestro Elmer Bernstein whose compositions add depth to the storyline and highlight character emotions. The film is a schematic excellence of narrative, direction, and performances that earned it five Oscar nominations.

In a nutshell, Love with The Proper Stranger is a compelling tale of love, responsibility, and self-discovery. It sets itself apart from other romantic movies of its time by successfully combining elements of romance, drama, and social commentary. The film is a must-watch for any fan of classic cinema, showcasing the timeless acting talents of Natalie Wood and Steve McQueen.