Father's Little Dividend (1951)

Father’s Little Dividend (1951)

 7/10

 Starring

Spencer Tracy

Joan Bennett

Elizabeth Taylor

Don Taylor

Billie Burke

 

Directed by Vincente Minnelli

 

As usual, just like the first film from 1950, this movie is narrated by Stanley Banks. The story begins with Stanley Banks (Spencer Tracy) preparing for a big day and reminiscing about events from a year ago. The movie features a fun score, focusing more on comedy compared to the first film, which leaned more towards drama. I enjoyed this movie more than the original and even more than the 1995 remake—odd, considering I loved the 1991 remake of Father of the Bride compared to the 1950 version.

The movie has a nostalgic charm and reminds me of the 1995 remake. If, like me, you grew up watching the Steve Martin version from the 90s, you’ll likely enjoy this one too. I felt this movie had a stronger start than the first film from 1950. Interestingly, the 1995 remake is a closer remake of this film than the 1950 movie is to the 1991 version.

The story begins with Kay (Elizabeth Taylor) inviting the family to her small apartment to share big news: she and Buckley are expecting a baby! While everyone is thrilled, Stanley feels as though his little Kay is slipping further away from him. Both expecting grandmothers suggest the couple live with them, but Kay and Buckley have already bought their own home. Kay’s mother, Ellie (Joan Bennett), is busy decorating their new place, while Buckley’s parents have made space for a nursery in their home. Meanwhile, Stanley grapples with the reality of Kay starting her own family.

Unlike the 1995 remake, which adds a second baby storyline and ends with the birth, this movie continues past the birth, showing Stanley adjusting to life as a grandfather.

In the end, the movie was a fun watch and did a better job with the comedy than the original. As usual, the actors were amazing, though I didn’t enjoy the score as much—it doesn’t quite compare to the 90s soundtrack, which I still think is in a class of its own.

This movie makes me curious about the new Warner Bros. adaptation of the story, which places the family in a Latino setting. Disney is also working on a remake for Disney+, and I hope both adaptations do justice to these classics.

I’m not sure where you can find these older movies to stream, but I recommend watching them if you love the charm of black-and-white films and enjoy talents like Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett, and Elizabeth Taylor. Or, if you’re like me and love the 90s remakes, you might never get tired of watching them again and again. Either way, I suggest revisiting the 90s remake and do not bother about the 2022 Warner Bros. adaptation.