Tall Story

Tall Story is a classic 1960's romantic comedy that highlights the charisma and acting prowess of Anthony Perkins and Jane Fonda. Adapted from the novel "The Homecoming Game" by Howard Nemerov, the film is a tale of young love, personal dreams, and the engaging plight of a small college basketball team. Directed by Joshua Logan, who was renowned for seamlessly integrating humor and drama, the film is a time capsule, reflecting the views and attitudes of the period it was created.

Anthony Perkins, known for his roles in other substantial films of that era, portrays Ray Blent, a young man from Indiana who is fixated with baskeball. Blent is a young, charismatic, ambitious, yet naive college basketball star who finds himself deceptively recruited to Custer College, dramatically throwing him into the midst of an intricate plot woven by the college officials. This is to enhance their basketball team's image and potentially win the championship.

The enchanting Jane Fonda in her debut role, portrays June Ryder. Ryder is a female student who is new to the college and instantly becomes smitten by Ray. Fonda's character is relentlessly pursuing a "Mrs." degree and is captivated by the college's tall, handsome basketball star at first sight. She embodies the energetic, charming, and audacious young woman with determination and a set plan to marry her dream man. Fonda also manages to bring the essence of aspiration and love to her role in a comic yet sensitive turn.

Joining in the film is Ray Walston, playing the role of Leo Sullivan, Custer College’s dean of men in the university administration. He does a commendable job portraying an ambitious and scheming dean, who is more interested in bringing glory to the college than with the well-being of the students. His character playfully manipulates the rules of the college and NCAA to ensure that the star basketball player Ray stays on the team and takes them to championship glory.

"Tall Story" tactfully uses the game of basketball as a backdrop to capture the period's social nuances, shedding light on the ethics of college sports programs and the expectations towards college women. With its pleasing cinematographical techniques of that time and vibrant set designs, it captures the spectator's attention by providing a vivid portrayal of the college life in the 60s.

The brilliant screenplay by Julius J. Epstein is filled with sparkling dialogue and wholesome humor. Its perfect blend of college dreams, romance, and comedic moments make the movie an absolute delight to watch. It addresses serious college issues with subtle nuances. The narrative manages to deliver a comic yet meaningful story that teeters on the verge of being a comedy of errors, ignited by the merry pursuit of love and glory, and prevalent societal norms at that time.

The musical score of the movie complements the screenplay perfectly. Lehman Engel's music hits the right chords and sets the mood throughout the film—be it the basketball matches, the pivotal declarations of affection, or the comedic scheming by the dean.

Furthermore, "Tall Story" underscores Joshua Logan's directorial ability to elicit strong performances from his cast. Moreover, the film allows movie enthusiasts to witness the debut of Jane Fonda and an early career standout of Anthony Perkins. Their performances and chemistry make the film truly memorable.

In a broader perspective, "Tall Story" provides insight into societal expectations and gender roles during the late 1950s and early 60s. It subtly depicts the psyche of that era where women aspired to be the perfect housewives and college sports were manipulated to attract funding and fame.

"Tall Story" is a film that should be included in your list if you appreciate vintage cinema, love sports, or enjoy a good romantic comedy! It's a beautiful blend of nostalgia, humor, and young love—a delightful cinematic experience indeed!