Three Smart Girls

Three Smart Girls is a delightful classic musical comedy that came to screens in 1936. Directed by the influential Henry Koster, the movie boasts a stellar cast which includes Binnie Barnes, Charles Winninger, and Alice Brady. It also introduced audiences to a young starlet, Deanna Durbin, whose career soon skyrocketed. This light-hearted film, with its skillful blend of humour, romance, and music, was intriguing at its time and remains timeless.

The narrative centres around three sisters, rich New York heiresses. They are played by Barbara Read, Deanna Durbin, and Nan Grey—the titular 'Three Smart Girls.' Their parents are divorced; they live with their wealthy mother in Switzerland and haven't seen their father, played by Charles Winninger, in over a decade. Their father lives in New York, absorbed in his business and his new relationship with a gold-digging woman played by Binnie Barnes.

The plot begins to unfold when the girls come to know that their father is going to marry their opportunistic girlfriend, much to their dismay. The trio, led by the youngest sister, who is passionately played by Deanna Durbin, decides to reunite their parents. Gearing up to take control of the situation, they embark on a journey to New York, making this their sole mission. They are united in the belief that their father's fiancée is malign in her intent and that their parents are better together.

While in New York, the girls play detectives and meddle in their father's love life, coming up with a series of hilarious and imaginative schemes. Their clever plans are peppered with slapstick comedy, making the film an entertaining rom-com. Though their well-meaning interference tends to create even more chaos, it certainly keeps you entertained throughout the film.

Deanna Durbin’s character shines brightest among the three, not only thanks to her fetching personality but also her remarkable singing talent. Her operatic voice provides the film with some of its most memorable and enjoyable moments. She adds elements of warmth, charm, and energy to the character, making it easy to support and cheer for her. Durbin quickly became a sensation, and this film was pivotal in launching her successful career.

Binnie Barnes plays the ostensible antagonist role quite effectively, delivering a performance filled with the right mix of cunning and charm to keep audiences hooked. As the man caught in between, Charles Winninger delivers a convincing performance, portraying a character who is quirky, clueless, and vulnerable all at once.

Meanwhile, Alice Brady portrays the lady's maid, providing a comedic touch. Mischa Auer enriches the cast with his performance as Count Arisztid, whose role is threaded with humour and vitality, supplementing the film’s amusing atmosphere.

Three Smart Girls boasts beautifully choreographed musical sequences, thanks to Joe Pasternak’s production. Noteworthy among them are Durbin’s charming renditions of classic opera compositions such as 'Il Bacio' and 'My Heart is Singing.' The film even secured a nomination for the Best Picture Academy Award, highlighting its impact and success at that time.

The movie's cinematography, done by Joseph Valentine, is noteworthy as he captures both the luxurious Swiss Alps and bustling New York City with a keen eye for detail, creating visually appealing scenes which complement the storyline. The wardrobe is stylish and suits the characters well, further enhancing the overall appeal of the film.

Three Smart Girls is a fun-filled roller-coaster ride of comedy, drama, and music that resonates with audiences of all ages. It is a testament to its time, offering a blend of family drama, playful mischief, and outstanding musical performances. The zingy script, strong performances, and sleek direction make this film a must-watch for lovers of classic cinema. Whether you're a fan of the 30s era or not, you'll find Three Smart Girls to be a delightful and heartwarming film, showcasing how far clever girls willing to take charge can go.