Never Too Late

Never Too Late is a light-hearted comedy that graced silver screens in 1965. Directed by Bud Yorkin, it stars some of the era's notable actors such as Paul Ford, Connie Stevens, and Maureen O'Sullivan. Based on Sumner Arthur Long's Broadway play of the same name, this fun-filled romp is about rediscovering love and embracing life's unexpected joys, proving that it is indeed 'never too late' for new beginnings.

Paul Ford, known for his comedic roles, steps into the shoes of Harry Lambert, a successful owner of a lumber company. He's advanced in years and is used to his conventional, calm, and fairly predictable life. His wife, Edith Lambert, is portrayed by Maureen O'Sullivan, a seasoned actress remembered for her performances in films like the 1932 classic, Tarzan the Ape Man. Edith is a loving woman, who is also comfortably settled into the rhythm of their many years of marriage.

Their lives see an unexpected twist when they discover they're expecting a child. Edith is overjoyed with the news, but the prospect of parenthood in the later years catches Harry off guard. He is left disoriented, confused, and concerned about what this news means for them. The thought of coping with midnight feeds, diaper changes, and tantrums at his age feels daunting and causes him to reevaluate his life. Thus, the film commences with an interesting collision of humor, anxiety, surprise, excitement, and plenty of potshots at the joys and tribulations of imminent parenthood.

Alongside them, we are introduced to Kate Clinton, played by the vivacious Connie Stevens. Kate is not just the Lamberts' daughter but also serves as an important conduit in the narrative, bringing in her perspective on the unusual situation. Understandably startled at the thought of her elderly parents having a baby, her character adds another layer of comedy and drama to the unfolding story. Also, in the mix is Charlie Clinton, Kate's husband and Harry's business partner, played by Jim Hutton, adding another flavor to the family dynamic.

Yorkin does a commendable job of leading the audience through the emotional maze so the story blooms with gentle comedy amid the realities of life. Complemented with a script that's filled with wit and natural dialogue, the movie highlights the vulnerabilities and insecurities of the characters, which make them all the more relatable and endearing. The plot is well set and offers numerous laugh-out-loud moments that keep the pace buoyant.

Much of the humor in Never Too Late sprouts from the contrast between Harry's sleepwalking stagnation and Edith's invigorated enthusiasm for motherhood. Ford and O'Sullivan do a fantastic job of capturing the essence of their characters and their lifelong relationship. Their on-screen chemistry feels genuine, and they deliver their banter and life dialogues with unaffected ease.

Connie Stevens does a remarkable job as their daughter, who, like her parents, is in an unnerving situation she never thought she'd face. She portrays the wide range of emotions - shock, elation, worry, and joy - excellently, contributing a significant proportion to the film's humor factor. Jim Hutton provides a persuasive portrayal of a supportive husband and a rational son-in-law stuck between the generational aspirations and apprehensions.

However, it's the subplot of Harry's self-discovery and rewriting his life that adds depth to the narrative. His shifting dynamics at his workplace, his relationship with his business partner Charlie, his conversations with his neighbor, navigate through the layers of his personality. He narrates how it's 'never too late' to shake off life's monotony and step into unknown territories, no matter your age.

Never Too Late is an enjoyable comedy filled with authentic situations, relatable characters, and a message that resonates. This film glows with moments of unexpected joy and serendipity, optimism, and warmth, radiating the idea of embracing life's surprises. Packed with superb performances, it succeeds in providing not just a good laugh but also a touching story about personal growth and late-life parenthood. It's a movie that emphasizes that it's 'never too late' to reinvent oneself, and it's 'never too late' to embrace change.