I saw this movie recently on TCM and for the most part, loved it!
I liked the shy, bumbling character of "Stretch" and the sheltered, Mary who fell hard for him.
Of course, being sheltered, she was limited in her experience with men.
But fortunately, she fell hard for a man with character and who loved her truly.
I knew that when she lied and misrepresented herself that she would be caught.
I especially loved the night when they married. It was a sweet throwback to an earlier time when single ladies weren't in single men's rooms at night or any time for that matter! It wasn't proper in 1938. It was very sweet and romantic for Stretch to propose marriage. His search for a wife was over!
Here are my slight criticisms:
Also, unsure if I can believe that his REAL name was "Stretch".
Then, there are the scenes where Mary was at the rodeo cleaning up. She became filthy and her dress was torn as a result.
I would think that she could have had her maids send her some clothes or wire her some money so she could purchase some clothes and toiletries. Or even ask her new husband to purchase her some clothes. There was a scene where she attempted to purchase some pants but was interrupted by the phone call. Why didn't she or Stretch purchase clothing and toiletries for her she before she boarded the bus?
Even rich ladies have to bathe and look presentable. A rich lady with her background wouldn't travel on the train for 3 days in a filthy, torn dress and unwashed. Suppose her dad and his friends had ALREADY arrived when she got there? How would she explain her appearance?
Also, the scene in the framework of the house lasted a little too long, in my opinion.
But other than that: I enjoyed this movie! Gary and Merle were great in the leads!
