Who's Got the Action?

Who's Got the Action? is a 1962 lighthearted comedy directed by Daniel Mann, known for his acclaimed works like Come Back, Little Sheba and The Rose Tattoo. The comedy stars the incredibly charming Dean Martin, the stunningly beautiful Lana Turner and the versatile Eddie Albert, supported by an ensemble cast including Walter Matthau and Nita Talbot. The screenplay was written by Jack Rose, known for other comedy hits such as Houseboat and My Geisha.

The story unfolds around Steve Flood (Dean Martin), who is caught in the throes of an unending addiction to gambling. As an affluent lawyer, he does not gamble for the money but for the thrill of the chase, the excitement of the gamble that borders on obsession. His deep-seated love for betting on horse races embodies quite a crux – a constant source of tension and tussles with his wife, Melanie Flood (Lana Turner).

Melanie is a sharp, fashionable, and charismatic woman deeply in love with her husband, but her burgeoning dissatisfaction with Steve's incessant gambling becomes a recurring theme in the storyline. The disharmony in their household increases by the day due to Steve's incessant betting, putting a strain on their overall domestic bliss. Melanie, frustrated and worried about her husband's obsession, resorts to concocting an ingenious plan to rectify the issue.

When the talented Lana Turner is in action, you can expect to be drawn into a world of smart solutions mixed with a dash of adventure. Fearing for her husband's mental health due to his relentless betting habit, Melanie devises a scheme involving Steve's friends. She convinces them to run a pseudo bookie operation where Steve can place his bets. However, with this setup, they simply pretend to place his bets, ensuring that Steve never really loses money, which effectively diverts his economic downfall.

Melanie believes that with this brilliant scheme, her husband will eventually get bored with his hobby if he is never faced with the prospect of losing. As Melanie embarks on this audacious plan, she recruits lawyer Clint Morgan (Eddie Albert), Steve's friend, and partner. Morgan, caught between a rock and a hard place, eventually agrees to help, marking the beginning of a complex and hilarious misadventure.

However, as the plan sets into motion, a series of circumstances and unexpected challenges occur, transforming the simple scheme into a complicated conundrum that engulfs not just Steve, but everyone involved. The plot delves deeper into their lives as they hilariously stumble while attempting to navigate their way out of the predicaments they end up causing for themselves. With humor and wit dispersed generously throughout the storyline, the viewers are in for quite an entertaining ride.

Besides the enthralling plot, the movie has an elegant taste of fashion and style courtesy of the leading lady, Lana Turner. Showcasing the glamorous style of the 1960s, Turner's costumes are a sight to behold - from chic cocktail dresses to glamorous evening gowns, exuding a perfect blend of elegance and sophistication.

It is also notable that the chemistry between Dean Martin and Lana Turner on-screen is quite captivating. The film captures their balanced relationship, one that's filled with love and conflicts – a relationship that is relatable and engaging. Not to mention, the comic timing between the actor and actress makes for an enjoyable watch.

Against the backdrop of a cautionary tale about the hazards of gambling, Who’s Got the Action? is a hearty and light watch that marks its presence with a blend of comic misunderstandings, hearty laughs, and brilliant on-screen portrayal of its characters. Despite being a classic movie from the 1960s, it remains an enjoyable comedy for viewers even today, packed with eccentricities that ensure continued entertainment and a good time for anyone who chooses to watch.

Lastly, the movie encapsulates Daniel Mann's directorial brilliance and Jack Rose's comedic writing, both laced with intelligence and humor. Through Who's Got the Action?, they bring to life a captivating comedy filled with chaotic confusions, cleverly planned plot twist, and witty dialogues, delivering an unforgettable cinematic journey.