Maisie Was a Lady

Our MAISIE WAS A LADY, or at least took care of one after going to work for two very wealthy siblings.

In this, the fourth entry in the Maisie series (1939-1947), lovable Ann Sothern continues to shine as the brassy showgirl who uses her innate decency and good old common sense to see her - and those around her - through life's rough patches. Although the film can boast of good production values and a fine supporting cast, Sothern remains the primary reason to watch.

Lovelorn Maureen O'Sullivan and alcoholic Lew Ayres are the sister & brother in need of Maisie's not-so-gentle ministrations. Paul Cavanagh, as their too-often-absent father, does well with his few scenes. Ushering in some unexpectedly serious sequences, Edward Ashley as O'Sullivan's caddish boyfriend, and pretty Joan Perry as his jilted lover, give the film a raw edge often missing in most comedies.

Best of all is wonderful Sir C. Aubrey Smith as the family's elderly, kindhearted butler. In a role which could have been rather insignificant in lesser hands, the old gentleman works a gentle magic with his lines and turns his part into one of the film's highlights.

Movie mavens will recognize Billy Curtis & Jerry Maren as two of the carnival's Little People, and Hans Conried as one of the silly house guests.