Socialite Chantal Stacy (Sandra Dee) is out to get a husband, and photographer Eugene Wright (Bobby Darin) is her target. Eugene, though, insists that he loves bachelorhood and that it is the ideal state for him. Not to be put off by Eugene's "I'll never settle down" attitude, Chantal gets to work on the man's heart, and before long, Mr. "Marriage Isn't For Me" is standing before the preacher, saying "I do."
Though she and Eugene are married, Chantal feels a bit ignored, so upon the advice of her French mother (Micheline Presle), she sets out to train Eugene to be exactly what she wants him to be. Using a dog-training manual, Chantal successfully turns her husband into an obedient, loving man. Of course, no husband wants to be treated like a dog is treated; therefore, when Eugene discovers Chantal's methods, he rebels. Determined to re-capture Eugene's attention, Chantal puts another of her mother's schemes into action, this time letting him think she is involved with another man. Eugene isn't a fool, though, and, scheming himself, he turns the tables on Chantal, which leads to some very comical moments. Who wins the game of one-upsmanship will play out in the remainder of the film.
This really is an adorable film, and the chemistry between Sandra Dee and Bobby Darin is fabulous. While my favorite of the Dee/Darin films is That Funny Feeling (reviewed HERE), If a Man Answers is definitely pure delight. It's funny and sweet, and the supporting cast is wonderful. John Lund portrays Chantal's dad, and the interaction between him and Micheline Presle (Chantal's mom) was fantastic. I loved them about as much as Dee and Darin. Cesar Romero is loads of fun in his role as well. And topping it all off are Sandra Dee's gorgeous dresses! Oh, I wish we gals still dressed like that on a daily basis!
This wonderful film is out on DVD, so it should be quite easy to track down. Definitely try to catch it if you can; I feel sure you will enjoy every delightful, romantic minute.
Happy viewing!!
