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That Touch of Mink
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Directed by Delbert Mann
When people refer to Doris Day as "the world's oldest professional virgin," they generally have the 1962 comedy That Touch of Mink in mind. It isn't that Cathy Timberlake (Day) is above a bit of hanky-panky; it's just that she wants such tangibles as a marriage license and wedding ring first. Thus, when playboy businessman Philip Shayne (Cary Grant) begins actively pursuing Cathy (they "met cute" when Philip's limo splashed mud on the hapless Cathy), she won't say "I will" until he says "I do." She is of the idealistic opinion that she can bring out the best intentions in him, even when he repeatedly tips off his worst intentions by inviting her to accompany him to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Bermuda. After not a few complications and misunderstands, Cathy finally finagles a proposal out of Philip. The film is essentially much ado about nothing, but it is so well-acted and attractively photographed that the audiences are willing to go along for the ride. The high-powered supporting cast includes Gig Young as Roger, Philip's moralistic financial advisor; Audrey Meadows as Connie, Cathy's wise-cracking roommate; Alan Hewitt as Dr. Gruber, a confused psychiatrist; John Astin as Beasley, Cathy's slimy would-be beau; Dick Sargent as a neurotic honeymooner; and an unbilled Richard Deacon as an all-around letch. Best scene: the baseball-dugout rhubarb involving New York Yankees Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, and Yogi Berra. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
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Review by All Movie Guide
All Movie Guide
is neutral about it.
Sex comedies from the 1960s tend not to age too well, and while that's true to an extent with That Touch of Mink, it does hold up better than many other similar films from the period. Part of the credit goes to the screenplay, which is structurally quite sound and which features dialogue that actually is witty on occasion and, even when not witty, is at least appropriate. Unfortunately, the main plot itself is bound to give pause to some modern viewers, who will object to a number of things, including the inherent materialism, the sexual "obligation" that Doris Day feels, the age difference between the leads, and the outdated sexual role-playing that permeates the film. However, when suave and charismatic Cary Grant is on hand, and when Day is operating -- as here -- at the top of her form, things are bound to be kept lively and entertaining, and the stars do not disappoint. They're also supported by an excellent supporting cast, from Audrey Meadows' wisecracking best pal to John Astin's oily letch. Delbert Mann directs with supreme confidence, timing his gags to within a nanosecond and keeping the whole thing moving along at a sprightly pace. Throw in some glamorous clothes and sumptuous settings, and Mink is a glossy, amusing and entertaining little film -- that is better enjoyed without probing under its surface. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide
 

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