"The Unsinkable Molly Brown" made its debut on Broadway in 1960. Tammy Grimes, as the Molly Brown of the title, received, perhaps, the best reviews of her acting career. When it was made into an MGM musical, Miss Grimes, lost her creation to Debbie Reynolds, who had a bigger name and was a favorite of the movie going public.
Meredith Wilson, the man behind another hit, "The Music Man", created a musical comedy that showcased a fictionalized account of the larger than life character of Molly, a woman who went from humble beginnings to bigger, and better things. As a matter of fact, she was truly "unsinkable" as proved by having survived the Titanic disaster.
Not having seen this film for quite some time, didn't quite make it for this viewer, on a second viewing, in spite of glowing comments from other IMDb contributors. However, it must be noted, our memory of having seen it before was more positive than the impression we got in watching it again. Part of the problem is the plot, which is silly, in the way the material is presented. Then again, this film has a dated feeling.
Debbie Reynolds threw herself into the role of Molly with gusto. It's one of her best achievements in the movies, and it should be recognized. Herve Presnell, who played Johnny Brown on Broadway, seemed destined for bigger and better things, as he shows here with his handsome looks and powerful singing voice. The cast includes several character actors that enhance the movie, notably, Ed Begley, Hermione Baddeley, Jack Krushen and Martita Hunt, among others.
The film could be seen as a curiosity, although it shows its age. The songs, with only a few exceptions don't have the quality of other Meredith Wilson's work. Only a couple of songs stay with the viewer after all is said and done. Charles Walters' direction was not too inspired and perhaps that seems to be the basic flaw with this "Molly".
