Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?

Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? is a dazzling 1957 comedy film directed by the legendary filmmaker, Frank Tashlin. Known for its offbeat humor, social commentary and glittering performances by Tony Randall, Jayne Mansfield, and Betsy Drake, this film offers a lively take on American pop culture while providing a satirical commentary on the pervasive nature of advertising and celebrity worship.

The lighthearted film takes us to the world of Madison Avenue, the heart of New York's advertising industry, which serves as the backdrop for our protagonist's journey. Rockwell P. Hunter, portrayed by Tony Randall, is a humble and struggling advertising executive. A likeable yet desperate character, Hunter is in a constant struggle to elevate his position in his company, La Salle Jr. Advertising Agency, and to win over his love interest, Jenny, a cunning portrayal by Betsy Drake.

The plot kicks off when Hunter comes across an opportunity to revive both his career in danger and his rocky love life. A chance to land the task of promoting Stay-Put Lipstick - a humdrum product whose sales desperately need a boost - can potentially unlock the promotion he’s been longing for. However, the deal includes a condition - signing the voluptuous blonde bombshell and famous actress, Rita Marlowe (played by a scintillating Jayne Mansfield), as the face of the brand.

The plot thickens as Hunter embarks on his pursuit to woo Marlowe into signing the contract. The ambitious executive finds himself entangled in a convoluted arrangement that involves him being portrayed as Marlowe's new beau. This commotion stirs up a whirlwind of events that questions Hunter's ethics and complicates his personal relationships.

Mansfield's performance as Rita Marlowe is often fondly compared to her real-life persona. She brings a vivacious appeal to her character and shines in her role as the glamorous, superstar actress, expertly navigating comedy infused with satirical undertones. From her extravagant clothing ensembles to her tongue-in-cheek dialogue delivery, she paints a stereotype of Hollywood's radiance and vanity which elicits both laughs and second thoughts about celebrity culture.

Tony Randall, on the other hand, is excellent as Hunter - a semi-naive ad executive caught in an unprecedented decision and trying to steer through the chaos. He masterfully balances his comedic moments with ideas of desperation and ambition.

Apart from the well-written characters and witty narrative, the film is also visually compelling. From flamboyant costumes to iconic locations, Tashlin uses bright colors and panoramic imagery to reflect the extravagance of the advertising world and Marlowe's life. Bold camera angles and vibrant lights are consistently used to command attention and enhance the comic appeal, similar to something one would see in a classic comic strip.

The film's humor lies intricately woven within its dialogues and situations, whilst subtly raising questions on consumerism, marketing, self-worth, and the true meaning of success. As the title suggests, the film cleverly employs the question, “Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?” by inflecting Hunter’s life with a sudden, ostentatious success.

Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? offers a luscious blend of humor, satire, and social commentary. The film's script is quick, sharp, and peppered with satirical quips, while its visuals are an aesthetic delight. Anchored by stellar performances, it remains a delightful edition to any classic film enthusiast's collection, not only for its star-studded cast, but also for its thought-provoking take on life in the fast lane.

Overall, it’s a clever film that uses humor as a powerful weapon to challenge societal norms and expectations. Not just a laugh-out-loud comedy, but also a mirror held up to our culture, Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? is a prime example of how a seemingly light-hearted film can hold a magnifying glass to the schematics of our society.