Bus Stop (1956)

Bus Stop Poster

Cowboys Beauregard Decker and Virgil Blessing attend a rodeo in Phoenix, where Decker falls in love with beautiful cafe singer Cherie. He wants to take Cherie back to his native Montana and marry her, but she dreams of traveling to Hollywood and becoming famous. When she resists his advances, Decker forces Cherie onto the bus back to Montana with him, but, when the bus makes an unscheduled stop due to bad weather, the tables are turned.

Film Overview
"Bus Stop" is a 1956 romantic drama movie directed by Joshua Logan, starring Marilyn Monroe and Don Murray. The film is based upon William Inge's 1955 play of the same name, which tells the story of a rough cowboy called Bo, who falls in love with Chérie, a saloon singer and the resulting occasions. The movie is considered a turning point in Monroe's profession, as she took a break from recording to study at the Actors Studio and returned to deliver a strong performance.

Plot Summary
The movie's story begins with a cowboy called Bo Decker (Don Murray) and his good friend and father-figure, Virgil (Arthur O'Connell), who head to Phoenix for a rodeo. Unfamiliar with city life and still a virgin, Bo aspires to discover a woman with whom he can lose his virginity and possibly wed. He comes across a bar, where Chérie (Marilyn Monroe), a saloon singer from the Ozarks, carries out. Interested by her appeal and endowed with a naïve aura of "love at very first sight", Bo instantly decides that he wants to marry her.

On the other hand, Chérie is a small-town girl with imagine Hollywood, quite saddened by her diminishing hopes and present life status. Bo ends up being self-important in his pursuit, stating his intents and expecting Chérie to be thrilled at his proposition. However, Chérie desires a man who would like and comprehend her, not someone who merely admires her outside.

Continuation of the Plot
Bo abducts Chérie and plans to wed her in Montana. Nevertheless, his strategy is disrupted when the bus they're taking a trip on is required to make a stop due to bad weather condition. At the bus stop, Grace's Diner, they satisfy other travelers whose reactions show their disapproval of Bo's boorish habits. He then comprehends the need to change his approach towards her.

While stuck at the restaurant, Bo ultimately confronts his immaturity and the superficiality of his feelings towards Chérie. His sheer arrogance produces stress with the other characters and ultimately requires him into a fight with the Sheriff. Following further experiences, Bo finally understands he must alter, acquire maturity and show genuine affection and respect for Chérie.

Conclusion
Humbled and sad, Bo consults and assistance from Virgil, who tells him that romantic relationships ought to focus on shared sensations and regard. Even when Chérie gets an opportunity to escape, she's drawn back towards Bo. Bo says sorry to Chérie and respectfully proposes to her. Chérie is touched by Bo's genuine love and consents to return with him to Montana, signalling the start of a real relationship based upon mutual regard and shared love.

Overall Impression
"Bus Stop" is a classic film that catches the transformation of a bold young man into a mature, considerate lover, exploring the significance of love, regard, and understanding in a relationship. Marilyn Monroe's representation of the vulnerable yet durable Chérie is nuanced and effective, showcasing her capacity as a severe actress. Meanwhile, Don Murray supplies a fascinating performance of an immature cowboy and his journey to maturity and understanding. The film deftly integrates love, comedy, and drama to provide a genuine and interesting narrative.

Top Cast

  • Marilyn Monroe (small)
    Marilyn Monroe
    Cherie
  • Don Murray (small)
    Don Murray
    Beauregard 'Bo' Decker
  • Arthur O'Connell (small)
    Arthur O'Connell
    Virgil Blessing
  • Betty Field (small)
    Betty Field
    Grace
  • Eileen Heckart (small)
    Eileen Heckart
    Vera
  • Robert Bray (small)
    Robert Bray
    Carl
  • Hope Lange (small)
    Hope Lange
    Elma Duckworth
  • Hans Conried (small)
    Hans Conried
    Life Magazine Photographer
  • Max Showalter (small)
    Max Showalter
    Life Magazine Reporter
  • Linda Brace
    Evelyn (uncredited)
  • Mary Carroll
    Cashier (uncredited)