In some ways, this is a series of vignettes cobbled together. The main story involves Eleanor Parker and Dennis Morgan. She had been a soda jerk when he was a chemistry student in the nearby college. Now they are reunited by chance while he is on leave from the service.
Her father is Henry Travers, very touching as a man viewed by many, himself most of all, as a failure. There is an implication that he's had emotional problems, as well. His wife, Parker's mother, is the absolutely always excellent Beulah Bondi. She looks tired, drawn, and grim when Parker first brings Morgan to the family Thanksgiving dinner but loosens up a bit once they've made her a grandmother.
Then there is comic relief Dane Clark, Morgan's military buddy. Dane Clark's is not a name that springs readily to mind when one thinks comedy but he is good. Faye Emerson is excellent as the girl he falls for while he and Morgan are on leave.
Then there is the always fascinating Andrea King, one of Parker's sisters. She has become jaded while her husband is off at sea. She has become a loose woman. When he reappears, as handsome William Prince, they somewhat improbably reconcile.
The movie is the slightly cheery side of a film noir. It has all the elements of noir. The difference is that it has a happy ending. Under the happiness, though, is terrible sadness -- both at home and fighting for our country overseas.
Her father is Henry Travers, very touching as a man viewed by many, himself most of all, as a failure. There is an implication that he's had emotional problems, as well. His wife, Parker's mother, is the absolutely always excellent Beulah Bondi. She looks tired, drawn, and grim when Parker first brings Morgan to the family Thanksgiving dinner but loosens up a bit once they've made her a grandmother.
Then there is comic relief Dane Clark, Morgan's military buddy. Dane Clark's is not a name that springs readily to mind when one thinks comedy but he is good. Faye Emerson is excellent as the girl he falls for while he and Morgan are on leave.
Then there is the always fascinating Andrea King, one of Parker's sisters. She has become jaded while her husband is off at sea. She has become a loose woman. When he reappears, as handsome William Prince, they somewhat improbably reconcile.
The movie is the slightly cheery side of a film noir. It has all the elements of noir. The difference is that it has a happy ending. Under the happiness, though, is terrible sadness -- both at home and fighting for our country overseas.