The Ladies Man

The Ladies Man is a vibrant, playful and often hilarious film released in 1961 by Paramount Pictures, starring the inimitable Jerry Lewis. The film is a feat of visual comedy and timing, making it one of Lewis's most memorable movies. Co-starring with Lewis are Helen Traubel, Pat Stanley, Kathleen Freeman and George Raft, adding elements of warmth, quirky humour and dramatic flair to an already engaging piece of cinema.

Jerry Lewis, renowned for his slapstick comedy, directs this film and also stars as the central character, Herbert H. Herbert. The humorous opening act situated in a small Midwestern town introduces Herbert as a young man who is recently engaged and looking forward to his impending nuptials. However, life has some surprises in store for Herbert, all of which form the comical narrative that ensues as he moves out of his comfort zone to the bustling city.

Herbert finds himself working as a handyman in a lavish, all-women boarding house supervised by the affectionate and lavish Helen Wellenmellen, played by the basket-voiced opera diva Helen Traubel. The boarding house is home to a host of different characters, from aspiring actresses to ballet dancers to women intent on pursuing their studies, each bringing their distinct charm and adding flavour to the film's dynamic ensemble. Here, comedic situations abound, all of which carefully orchestrated and staged by Lewis's ingenuity.

The film is set with visually stunning sets that are as diverse as they are colourful. The boarding house itself is an architectural marvel, with more than forty rooms covering an array of themes and time periods, from Victorian elegance to modernist chic. Lewis presents his setting with a vivid sense of detail, and the interplay among characters within this compact but diverse space features brilliantly in his comedy.

As Herbert dives headfirst into his new life, he navigates his way through the boarding house's intricate setting and its lively residents with a great deal of awkwardness and clumsiness. Lewis masterfully manages the art of physical comedy, bringing to life a character who is constantly at odds with his surroundings. His knack for comic timing paired with his physical articulation undoubtedly represents the most brilliant aspect of the film.

At her end, Helen Traubel's portrayal of the boarding house owner is full of wit, elegance, and an entrancingly powerful voice. Complemented by the flamboyance of Pat Stanley, who plays one of the actresses living in the house, and the other varied inhabitants of the boarding house, the film delivers a concoction of hilariously eccentric and engaging moments.

In terms of musical elements, the film features a mix of catchy songs and extravagant dance numbers, bringing a musical charm to the film. A highlight is the highly entertaining scene where a group of ballet dancers led by Sylvia Lewis performs inside a life-size music box, showcasing Lewis's creative prowess.

Moreover, a rare yet fascinating element of this film is an appearance by renowned actor George Raft in a parodical portrayal of his gangster film persona, injecting an element of satire and star power into the film's delightful narrative.

The Ladies Man is indeed a rich tapestry of comedy, drama, and music, making it a perfect example of Lewis's signature style. Featuring superb performances, entertaining comic bits, choreographed chaos, and rich and detailed sets, the film presents a unique blend of factors that contribute to its unique and enduring appeal.

While The Ladies Man does not overly emphasize the narrative, it masterfully creates a cinematic style that is impressive in its audacity. It showcases the creativity of Jerry Lewis, proving why he's one of cinema's most distinct comedic voices. Despite its release almost seventy years ago, the film still remains an engaging watch that continues to charm audiences with its enduring humour and distinct comedic style.

Whether you're a fan of Jerry Lewis or just looking for a good laugh, The Ladies Man might just be the film worth watching. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of well-crafted physical comedy and character-focused narrative, making it a comedic gem from 1961 that's still worth revisiting for a nostalgic laughter-filled evening.