My Dear Secretary (1948) A successful novelist hires an aspiring writer as his secretary, leading to a whirlwind of romance, comedy, and professional rivalry. Director: Charles Martin Screenplay by: Charles Martin Produced by: Leo C. Popkin Starring: Laraine Day as Stephanie "Steve" Gaylord Kirk Douglas as Owen Waterbury Keenan Wynn as Ronnie Hastings Helen Walker as Elsie Rudy Vallee as Charles Harris Florence Bates as Horrible Hannah Reeve Alan Mowbray as Deveny Helene Stanley as Miss "Clay" Pidgeon Irene Ryan as Mary Gale Robbins as Dawn O'Malley Grady Sutton as Sylvan Scott Virginia Hewitt as Felicia Adams Cinematography: Joseph F. Biroc Editing by: Arthur H. Nadel Music by: Heinz Roemheld Production Company: Cardinal Pictures Distributed by: United Artists Release Date: November 5, 1948 Runtime: Approximately 94 minutes Country: United States Language: English Genres: Comedy, Romance ------------------------------------------------------------ Synopsis: - Owen Waterbury, a best-selling romance novelist, hires Stephanie "Steve" Gaylord as his latest secretary. - Steve, an aspiring writer herself, is thrilled at the opportunity—until she realizes Owen is more interested in chasing women than writing books. - As Steve navigates Owen’s chaotic lifestyle, she finds herself caught between admiration and frustration. - Their professional relationship takes an unexpected turn when Owen proposes marriage, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings. - When Steve’s own novel gains recognition, the dynamic between them shifts, forcing Owen to confront his ego and their evolving relationship. ------------------------------------------------------------ Key Themes & Highlights: - Workplace Romance: The film explores the humorous and complicated dynamics of working with someone you admire. - Gender Roles in Writing: Steve’s journey from secretary to successful author challenges traditional expectations. - Classic Hollywood Comedy: Filled with witty dialogue, slapstick moments, and eccentric characters. - Kirk Douglas in a Rare Comedic Role: Known for dramatic performances, Douglas showcases his comedic timing. - Public Domain Legacy: The film remains accessible through archives and digital platforms, preserving its historical significance. ------------------------------------------------------------ Trivia: - Kirk Douglas’s Early Career: This was one of Douglas’s first leading roles before he became a Hollywood icon. - Public Domain Status: *My Dear Secretary* has entered the public domain, making it widely available for viewing and restoration efforts. - Irene Ryan’s Appearance: Years before *The Beverly Hillbillies*, Ryan played a supporting role in this film. - Independent Production: Produced outside the major studios, the film has a distinct charm and character. - Influence on Later Romantic Comedies: The film’s themes of professional rivalry and romance have been echoed in many later films. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hashtags: #MyDearSecretary #1948Comedy #ClassicHollywood #KirkDouglas #PublicDomainFilm #GoldenAgeCinema #RomanticComedy #AspiringWriter #HollywoodHistory #CardinalPictures