Love Is a Ball

Tremendously entertaining and fun romantic comedy, set on the Riviera, filmed in warm sunshine with a top cast of real professionals. Saw it at the Royal in San Francisco, 3-31-63; co-feature was the Stewart Granger swashbuckler SWORDSMAN OF SIENA. Walked to the theatre from my apartment on a pleasant evening, for a comfortable evening at the movies, in a well appointed neighborhood house, for which I had a Pass. In the old days, one could expect a good time at the movies most times out, and always get value for money. In my case, it was a cinch

What surprise(s)? Plenty. How about Telly Savalas playing an effeminate guardian? How about Ricardo Montalban playing a klutz! This movie has all that and then some. Hope Lange is perfect as the rebellious young girl who doesn't want to be stereotyped (this was pretty racy for the 50s mind you), and Glenn Ford totally disarmed by his circumstance and his company.

Great chemistry between the players especially between Charles Boyer and Montalban, who just doesn't seem like he's ever going to play up to his title...this is really funny.

A movie I can watch again and again.

The real reason to see this movie is the CARS. Shot in the early 60's, I actually remember seeing a promo on the Carson show. It takes place during the Grand Prix, but in addition to the race cars, you can see what are now classics, 3500 GT Spyder Maserati, 300SL cabriolet, Rolls Royce cabriolet, 50's Corvette, Mercedes gullwing, the list just goes on. For any REAL car nut, this movie is a gem!

Loved it. One of my all time favorites. Glenn ford is great, Mr Boyer is a real hoot, and the young Ricardo Montalban is a delight. Does anyone know who owns the rights? I would love to see it again. Been waiting for years. Please e-mail me. Thank you for reading this.

This piece of light comedy is very under-rated by many of those that I have spoken to about it, and invariably improves upon second viewing.

The timing of Mr.Boyer's deliveries are impeccable. Those who are familiar with Telly Savalas in his tough-guy roles will be astonished at his performance here. Hope Lange gives one of her warmest performances in this movie; although playing a spoiled rich girl, she never loses our affection and sympathy.

The supporting cast members play their parts wonderfully, each one adding just the right flavouring to the mix.

Ricardo Montalban does so well (Maybe just a little too simple for a European noble fallen on hard times - but I think that is acceptable in this part, where they want humour, someone believably attractive without being a challenge to Ford), that we never for a moment want him to win the female lead, yet we are pleased that he does find a good match. His closing scenes restore our respect for him.

Glenn Ford is charming in a low-key fashion. Charming yet rugged, with principles. A good, strong partner for Miss Lange's character.

The closing scene between Lange & Ford never fails to leave me smiling.