Christmas in Connecticut (1945)

Although definitely not in the same league as her Ball of Fire or The Lady Eve, Christmas in Connecticut would be worth watching if for no other reason than to see Barbara Stanwyck's attempts at being a "homebody." A unique talent, Stanwyck is in very fine form throughout the film. In less capable hands, the character could come across as sneaky, manipulative, and mean, but Stanwyck somehow makes all of these qualities seem lovable and totally forgivable. She's also sexy -- what more could anyone want? Well, perhaps some of the dialogue could be a bit snappier and some of the plotting a trifle less obvious. But given the fast pace that director Peter Godfrey employs, there's fortunately little time to worry about these defects. Besides, Una O'Connor and S.Z. Sakall add enormously to the fun, and even Dennis Morgan isn't bad. Christmas in Connecticut may not be perfect, but it's slick and lively and never less than entertaining. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide