But Not For Me (1959)

A Broadway producer/director (Clark Gable) is in desperate straits in getting backing for his new play written by a has been alcoholic (Lee J. Cobb). But his young secretary (Carroll Baker) provides the impetus to revitalize both the play and the producer/director. Based on the 1934 Broadway comedy ACCENT ON YOUTH by Samuel Raphaelson, this is actually the third film version. Previously made in 1935 and 1950 (under the title MR. MUSIC), this incarnation is an amiable enough hodgepodge that never quite catches fire but it doesn't sink either. At this stage of his career, the 57 year old Gable could no longer romance pretty young things without it looking awkward. Most of the humor in the film specifically comes from the age difference between Gable and Baker as his love smitten secretary turned actress. When Gable is presented with a birthday cake, his ex-wife (Lilli Palmer) purrs, "I'm sorry but 51 candles are all I could find!". The always welcome Palmer, in fact, walks away with the film. Directed by Walter Lang (THE KING AND I). With Barry Coe, Thomas Gomez and Joi Lansing. Ella Fitzgerald sings the Gershwins' title song.