THE STRAWBERRY BLONDE

CAPSULE REVIEW –– A terribly old-fashioned tale that only succeeds in being mildly entertaining because of the pure star power of its' three leads. The film centers on Biff (Cagney), a down on his luck dentist who believes his life would be better if it weren't for the backstabbing ways of an old friend, Hugo (Carson). Not only did Hugo steal Virginia (Hayworth), the girl he loved, but eventually lands Biff in jail for a crimes he didn't commit. During all these troubles, Biff finds comfort in the arms of Amy (de Havilland), Virginia's best friend. However, as happy as he's been with Amy and appreciative of the way she stuck by him, he can't help but wonder what his life would have been like if he'd married Virginia, the strawberry blond of his dreams. A twist of fate brings the old friends together, giving Biff the chance to see firsthand the bullet he dodged in regards to Virginia. She gave up her chance at love for money and status, which turned out to be a bum deal. Hugo's obvious unhappiness allows BIff to truly appreciate the simple life and loving wife fate threw his way. Though the film has some amusing moments and real chemistry between Cagney and de Havilland, it's mostly a rather drawn out affair that puntcuates its' message "to love the life you have" every chance it gets. Cagney's energetic turn makes the proceedings almost worth the time spent.