Sex and the Single Girl

Sex and the Single Girl, released in 1964, is a delightful and sensuous romantic-comedy that remains a timeless classic, enshrining itself in the history of Hollywood's light-hearted, innuendo-filled comedies. The movie boasts a star-studded cast, featuring the unparalleled charisma of Tony Curtis and Natalie Wood, accompanied by the indomitable screen presence of the legendary Lauren Bacall. Directed by Richard Quine, the film is filled with a cocktail of mischievous schemes, buttery dialogue, moments of heartfelt warmth, and an array of iconic set pieces that are sure to leave audiences smiling.

The storyline centers around a popular magazine writer, Bob Weston (Tony Curtis), who is renowned for his racy exposés. Weston has his sights set on his next big story - a sensational exposure of a reputed research psychologist and author, Helen Gurley Brown (Natalie Wood). Helen is admired for her book, "Sex and the Single Girl", which poignantly discusses the intimate lives and sexual freedom of the modern unmarried woman. Intrigued by the controversial subject and the person behind it, Weston formulates a deceptive plan to interview Helen, who is known to turn down interviews from the press.

To gain access to Brown, Weston lies about his identity, claiming to be a patient in need of therapy. What follows is a complicated tangle of lies, technicalities, and romantic comedy tropes as Weston and Brown meet, sparking off an unexpected chemistry. Despite their differing objectives - Brown desperate to help her 'troubled patient' and Weston keen on scooping an exclusive story, the pair can't help but be drawn to each other.

Tony Curtis manifests the impulsivity, audacity, and irresistible charm of Bob Weston to perfection. His embodiment of a man captivated by his own duplicity, yet thrown off balance by his increasing enchantment for Helen, contributes greatly to the comic tension of the story. Natalie Wood, on the other hand, shines brightly as the smart, independent, and attractive Helen Gurley Brown. Her poised performance serves as a powerful foil to Curtis's manic energy, and their on-screen interactions are delightful to watch.

A distinctive ingredient in this comedic mix is Lauren Bacall as Sylvia Broderick, a glamorous woman married to Weston's neighbor (played by Henry Fonda). Always elegant, Bacall adds an additional layer of charm and wit to the film. Between her clashes with Wood and fighting off Curtis's advances, Bacall's performance often steals the show.

Sex and the Single Girl is a delightful example of the screwball comedy genre. Quine engages us with uproarious dialogue, fast-paced plot twists, and an atmosphere dripping with romantic tension. He flawlessly navigates the clash between independent femininity and conforming masculinity, exploring themes that were thought-provoking for the era.

The screenplay, written by Joseph Heller and David R. Schwartz, skillfully weaves in elements of slapstick humor alongside its more thoughtful commentary on societal norms. The movie's overall effect is captivating, using witty banter and situations to stimulate hearty laughter.

Sex and the Single Girl’s aesthetic appeal is amplified by excellent production designs and vibrant color coordination. Its visuals echo the burgeoning optimism and dynamism of the swinging 60s. The film's upbeat music, composed by Neal Hefti, complements the mood perfectly, heightening the drama and the humor in equal measure.

In essence, Sex and the Single Girl is a romp of mistaken identities, cunning misinformation, and romantic entanglements. With its rushing pace, a series of uncanny coincidences, and its parade of increasingly outrageous antics, the movie delivers a classic mix of glamour, humor, and romance. Featuring sterling performances from its star-studded cast, it is a comedy that still holds up as a source of refreshingly light-hearted entertainment amidst the contemporary landscape of cinema. It's a delightful watch for those in search of something light-hearted yet thought-provoking.