Who Was That Lady?

Who Was That Lady? is a classic 1960 comedy film starring the stellar trio of Tony Curtis, Dean Martin, and Janet Leigh that successfully blends the genres of spy intrigue and romantic confusion into a compelling narrative.

Directed by George Sidney, the film tells the tale of David Wilson, played by Tony Curtis, a university professor in Columbia who teaches chemistry. David lives a fulfilling life with his wife, Ann, enacted by Janet Leigh, until his life takes a sudden turn when he gets caught in a compromising situation with a female student. The ensuing scene catapults David into a series of hilarious and complex situations that form the backbone of the narrative.

In desperation, David reaches out to his old friend, Michael Haney, played by Dean Martin. Michael, a successful but slightly unscrupulous television writer, begins weaving tales to salvage the situation, but only complicates it further. The situation goes from bad to worse when Michael suggests that David portray himself as an undercover FBI agent who was merely pretending to have an affair as part of his undercover work. The idea seems to smooth things over until the genuine FBI agents come into the picture. Privacy, trust, and respect become intricate subjects as the plot smoothly transits into spy-thriller territory.

The plot further thickens with a host of supporting characters who contribute to the comedic tension of the story. The film fully employs the mistaken identity trope that was so popular in the comedy films of the 1950s and 60s. It delves into an exploration of marriage, relationships, and the humorous ways in which people go to great lengths to cover their deceit.

Apart from the compelling story, the film’s charm also lies in its illustrious cast. Tony Curtis, especially, is impressive as a distressed husband caught in ludicrous situations. He portrays the character's gradual change from a nerdy professor to a man of intrigue and espionage quite convincingly. His comedic timing is impeccable and his chemistry with the other characters boosts the narrative. Dean Martin, with his signature charm, delivers an entertaining performance as the slightly roguish friend who complicates the already complicated plot. Equally captivating is Janet Leigh, whose role as the trusting yet suspicious wife provides the film with its emotional undercurrents.

Despite being a comedy, Who Was That Lady? also packs some dramatic punches. The characters’ personal dilemmas and comedic endeavors escalate into a large-scale international incident involving national security. This sudden tonal shift adds depth to the plot and the suspense keeps the audiences on the edge of their seats. Amidst all this, the film never loses its comedic touch and ties in all its threads quite effortlessly.

Who Was That Lady? also utilizes its setting to its advantage. The film’s depiction of 1960s New York, with its boulevards, towering buildings, and diverse populace, gives it a nostalgic feel. This effectively contrasts with the intricate and imaginative plot, thus creating an riveting aesthetic. The film is a perfect blend of situational comedy, an unpredictable plot, and dynamic character performances.

In terms of technical aspects, the film’s cinematography and music stand out. The frames are beautifully set, bringing out the quintessential appeal of the 60s. The film’s soundtrack sets the mood perfectly for all its comic and suspenseful moments.

In conclusion, Who Was That Lady? is a formulaic yet fun narrative that is a joy to watch, thanks to its sharp script, engaging plot, top-notch performances from its lead actors, and its visually appealing setting. It successfully manages to juggle several genre conventions while still maintaining its entertainment quotient. This film, therefore, makes for an appealing watch for those who enjoy classic Hollywood comedies that are marked by a blend of humor, wit, and suspense.