Dear Ruth (1947)

Set during WWII, a Lieutenant (William Holden) on a two day leave from the army shows up at the home of a judge (Edward Arnold) wishing to see his daughter Ruth (Joan Caulfield) who has been writing him letters. But Ruth has no idea who he is because it was Ruth's kid sister (Mona Freeman) who wrote the letters without her knowledge! Based on the hit Broadway play by Norman Krasna and directed by William D. Russell. This was the kind of "cute" comedy that was popular on both the stage and in film until TV sitcoms took them over. This one is amiable and inoffensive. Not exactly great praise I know but it has its modest charms. My main problem with the film was Holden, an actor not exactly known for his light comedy touch. It doesn't help that his character is more pushy than charming. The rest of the cast is up for it especially Billy De Wolfe as Caulfield's frustrated fiance who steals the movie. Like the play, the film was a big hit and spawned two sequels, DEAR WIFE and DEAR BRAT. With Edward Arnold, Mary Philips, Virginia Welles and Marietta Canty.