Mother Is a Freshman

Because of a quirky trust left by her grandmother, 35-year old Abby goes to college where she and her 17-year old daughter get involved with a handsome professor. And-- as they say-- complications ensue.

The movie's 80-minutes of eye-catching fluff from TCF. The look is just right, with a glowing Technicolor perfect for an idealized storyline. Then too, dear Loretta gets to model an array of flattering fashion; plus I'm reminded of a post-war time when girls wore both sweaters and skirts. Ah, yes! The movie's a tartly amusing set-up, no belly laughs, but a few chuckles as the characters tangle and untangle. Fortunately, veteran director Bacon knows how to keep a light touch even through the more dramatic moments. It's also an attractive cast, even if Professor Johnson is something of an idealized stretch. Only teenage cutie Lynn is over the top, at times, while heart-throb Johnson appears privately amused with a sly grin throughout. All in all, this is Hollywood's dream factory hitting on all eight. And catch the naughty book that everyone's sneak-reading— probably seem as innocent now as Old Mother Hubbard. But then, this was a time when kids gathered at the malt shop to listen to swing bands on the jukebox. Fortunately, a lot of that upbeat innocence is reflected in this period piece. Nothing substantive here, just an easy way to pass an evening.