The Mating Game

The Mating Game is a classic romantic comedy film from 1959. This movie stars Debbie Reynolds, Tony Randall, and Paul Douglas. It was directed by George Marshall and produced by Stanley Rubin.

The story revolves around Abigail Page (Debbie Reynolds), a young and inexperienced zoology student who inherits her father's farm in Wisconsin. Her father, who was a game warden, left her with an unusual request in his will. He asked her to continue his work of preserving wildlife by studying the courtship rituals of animals and writing a book about it.

When Abigail arrives at the farm, she finds out that her father has been playing matchmaker for her and trying to set her up with an eligible bachelor from the town. The man in question happens to be a neighboring farmer named Jack Culver (Tony Randall).

Jack is a handsome but slightly eccentric man who is known for his love of practical jokes. He's not interested in settling down and getting married, but his father (Paul Douglas) is determined to see him settled down and with a family of his own.

When Abigail and Jack meet, they clash immediately. She finds him rude and obnoxious, while he thinks she's too uptight and serious. Despite their initial dislike for each other, Abigail and Jack are thrown together by a series of misadventures and begin to develop feelings for one another.

Complicating matters further is the fact that Abigail's father's will also stipulated that she must be engaged to a man for six months in order to inherit the farm. This leads to some wacky schemes and subterfuge as Jack and Abigail try to convince everyone that they are in love.

The Mating Game is a charming and funny movie that showcases the comedic talents of its three leads. Debbie Reynolds is perfect as the straight-laced Abigail, while Tony Randall brings his trademark wit and charm to the role of Jack. Paul Douglas is also excellent as Jack's brash and pushy father.

The movie is set against a beautiful rural backdrop, with plenty of scenes featuring farm animals like cows, chickens, and pigs. The film is also notable for its use of physical comedy and slapstick, which adds to its overall lighthearted and fun tone.

The Mating Game was well-received by critics when it was released and remains a beloved classic to this day. It's a movie that's easy to watch and enjoy, with a sweet and simple romantic story at its heart.

In conclusion, The Mating Game is a charming and delightful romantic comedy from 1959 that showcases the talents of its three leads. With its beautiful rural setting, physical comedy, and sweet romance, it's a movie that's sure to please audiences of all ages.