No My Darling Daughter

No My Darling Daughter is a British comedy film released in 1961, enjoying the laudable performances of Michael Redgrave, Michael Craig, and Roger Livesey. This light-hearted feature, directed by Ralph Thomas, stands out as one of the cinematic pieces from the early 60s that combine traditional British humor with the generational shifts that were beginning to take place in society at that time.

The narrative centers on the relationship between Sir Matthew Carr (played by Michael Redgrave), a succesful businessman and a widower, and his daughter, Tansy Carr (played by Juliet Mills). Sir Matthew embodies the conventional British values of the time: he's well-respected, clearly well-off, and a stickler for propriety. Tansy, on the other hand, is a vivacious and independent young woman, whose modern views clash with her father's conservative ideals.

The plot thickens when Tansy returns from a European trip, bringing with her a fascinating mixture of new ideas and a desire for greater independence from the more restrictive societal norms represented by her father. The generational gap is humorously depicted through their differing opinions on love, work, and the idea of a woman's place in the mid-20th century society.

Michael Craig plays Thomas Barclay, who works for Sir Matthew and becomes inadvertently tangled in the father-daughter dynamic. Barclay is an ambitious young man with his own set of principles and aspirations. The film develops a layer of romantic comedy through the evolving relationship between Tansy and Thomas, complicated by her father's interference and attempts at stage-managing his daughter's future.

The character actor Roger Livesey adds to the fun with his own distinct role, which complements the central conflict. Livesey's theatrical background allowed him to contribute a certain gravitas and humor to the film, accentuating the generational and class differences depicted.

A series of comedic scenarios ensues as Sir Matthew endeavors to steer Tansy towards what he deems an appropriate match, pushing his parental boundaries in an attempt to protect and guide her. Tansy's determination to take control of her own destiny creates both comedic and thoughtful moments as she asserts her independence, challenging her father's old-fashioned attitudes. The discourse between new and old is a theme that runs throughout the film, giving the comedy a reflective undertone.

Set in an era in which the ashes of the Victorian era were still warm, "No My Darling Daughter" tackles the tensions with a gentle yet pointed humor. It questions the societal norms and the definition of 'acceptable behavior' for women during a period of burgeoning social change. The London setting provides an excellent backdrop for the clash between the conservative British upper classes and the emerging modern attitudes, particularly among the young.

As the story unfolds, the narrative provides insightful commentary on the contradictions of class and hierarchy, as well as expectations around gender roles. It's in this context that the film explores not only the overt conflict between Tansy and her father but also the subtle nuances of their affectionate and ultimately loving relationship.

The director, Ralph Thomas, is no stranger to post-war British cinema, and "No My Darling Daughter" offers an excellent example of his work in the genre of comedy. The script navigates its themes with wit and a sense of timing that allows the comedy to breathe, creating a delightful watch. One of the strengths of the film is the dialogues, which are rich in intelligent banter and throwaway lines that characterised much of British humor at that time.

Visually, the movie is comfortably set within its era, showcased through the costuming, setting, and cultural references which will be nostalgic for some and an anthropological study for others. The fact that it captures a slice of the early 60s Britain gives the film an additional historical value.

The cast's performances are notable, with each actor bringing charm and energy to their roles. Michael Redgrave's portrayal of the increasingly frustrated yet caring father is both amusing and touching. Juliet Mills as Tansy plays with a free-spirited defiance that provides the right counterbalance to her on-screen father's conservatism. Michael Craig lends the character of Thomas enough ambition and likability to make his interactions with both Tansy and Sir Matthew engaging.

While not usually ranked among the period's cinematic masterpieces, "No My Darling Daughter" delivers a quaint charm and provides a humorous look at family dynamics, love, and the generational divide. It is a movie to be enjoyed by audiences who appreciate the classic allure of British comedy and the nuanced exploration of societal changes through the lens of personal relationships.