The Second Time Around

Set against the sprawling backdrop of the American West during the frontier days, the film The Second Time Around, released in 1961, is a captivating romantic comedy that brilliantly showcases the dynamic performances of its leading lady, Debbie Reynolds, and her co-stars, Steve Forrest and Andy Griffith. This film, directed by Vincent Sherman and distributed by Twentieth Century Fox, ingeniously blends elements of adventure, comedy, and romance to craft an enthralling narrative that feels as wide and breathtaking as the landscapes it is set in.

At the heart of the story is Lucretia Rogers (played with sparkling vivacity by Debbie Reynolds), a recent widow from New York, who relocates to Arizona due to a financial predicament. The setting provides an intriguing shift from the bustling life of the big city to the wild, rough-and-tumble world of the west in 1911. In Arizona, she finds herself amid a comically chaotic ranching community fraught with myriad challenges and myriad more interesting characters.

Steve Forrest, as Rodolpho 'Roda' Rodales, adds a dash of rugged charm and roguish wit to the film. His dynamic chemistry with Reynolds’ character makes for a delightful watch, as Roda, a frontier rancher, finds himself increasingly drawn towards the spirited Lucretia. Andy Griffith, as Pat Collins, introduces additional layers of drama to the narrative as he gives an engaging performance playing a warm, genuine, and hearty rancher who also has an eye for the newcomer.

As the movie unfolds, it follows Lucretia as she gradually acclimates to her surroundings and begins to etch out an existence in this strange new land. Not one to shy away from challenges, she surprises everyone by becoming a deputy sheriff when violence in the town escalates. This venture into law enforcement introduces a fresh angle to the narrative as Lucretia employs her quick wit and resourcefulness to maintain law and order. It provides the opportunity for unique comedic moments, thrilling action scenes, and deepening of relationships.

Director Vincent Sherman successfully brings the Old West to life through a keen eye for detail, capturing its expansive landscapes, hardscrabble ranch life, and colorful community. Blending its comedic aspects seamlessly with hints of frontier dangers and challenges of survival, the film paints an often-ignored aspect of women’s role in taming the wild west.

The Second Time Around is distinguished by its emphasis on character development. The transition of Reynolds' character from a city spinster to a fearless deputy sheriff in the Wild West is especially noteworthy. Meanwhile, Forrest and Griffith lend their characters an endearing authenticity that wins the audience quickly.

The movie’s screenplay is wittily charming, with well-placed comedic interludes that light up the drama and action sequences, while the romance, both sweet and complicated, adds a further layer of absorbing storyline to the mix. Another noteworthy aspect of the film is its music - the title song, “The Second Time Around,” was popular during its time and was even nominated for an Academy Award, further enhancing this cinematic piece.

One might perceive The Second Time Around as a simple lighthearted western romance, but beneath that, it offers a fun and adventurous ride through the frontier life of early Arizona, all seen through the eyes of a spirited female protagonist. With endearing performances, an enjoyable storyline, a carefully articulated setting pinpointing the era's authenticity, this film satisfies on multiple levels.

Spearheaded by an impressive performance from Debbie Reynolds, and ably supported by Steve Forrest and Andy Griffith's charismatic portrayals, The Second Time Around offers a delightful foray into an unrefined western world layered with humor, romance, and adventure. It’s a classic piece of cinema that caters to both Western enthusiasts' interest in the genre and those who lean more towards romantic comedy.