The Girl Who Came Gift-Wrapped (1974)

The Girl Who Came Gift-Wrapped Poster

So how can a swinging bachelor learn a lesson about love? As magazine publisher Michael Green celebrates his big 4-0, he finds a bikini-clad Sandy Benson wrapped in a big bow as a birthday present supposedly courtesy of his drinking buddies. After trading barbs with the former beauty pageant winner, they find they have an attraction of sorts and she sticks around. Romance abounds as this country girl goes looking for romance in the big city in a typical television romantic comedy fashion.

Introduction
"The Girl Who Came Gift-Wrapped", launched in 1974, is a traditional romantic funny tv film directed by Bruce Bilson. The story focuses on a journalist who suddenly receives a special present - an ambitious young actress, who stirs up mayhem and fascination in his life. The film includes Richard Long as the leading guy, Michael Green, with Karen Valentine as the active 'gift', Pia Gilbert, supported by Tom Bosley and Farrah Fawcett in notable functions.

Plot Summary
The story starts with Michael Green, played by Richard Long, a desired magazine writer living in Los Angeles, who is pestered by his unwanted popularity with the opposite sex. His pals playfully choose to send him an uncommon birthday surprise: a gorgeous, hopeful starlet Pia Gilbert, played by Karen Valentine, who pops out of a giant box covered in a pink bow. At first shocked, Michael is further stunned when Pia reveals her intention of being his 'present' for a month, so she might acquire publicity stunts that would assist launch her acting profession.

Main Characters and Performances
With his rushing charm, Richard Long brilliantly represents Michael Green, a male stuffed with dilemma about what to do with the unanticipated, thoroughly enthusiastic and yet disarmingly innocent, Pia. Desperate to dissuade her, Green's position makes complex even further when Pia wins over his endearing maid, played by Tom Bosley. Karen Valentine gives a wonderful performance as Pia, providing a best balance of resourcefulness and decision. Her bubbly, younger beauty and innocence draw the audience in just as it mesmerizes Michael Green on screen.

Romantic Evolution and Conflict
As the story unfolds, Pia embeds herself into Green's daily life, making herself beneficial and wonderfully inevitable. Go Into Sally Sherwood, portrayed by Farrah Fawcett, a sensational, advanced female, who is smitten with Green and is unsuspecting of his significantly complicated predicament. With the ensuing misconceptions and comedic chaos, Green discovers himself torn between 2 contrasting love interests; on one hand, the undesirable yet alluring 'present' Pia, and on the other, the poised, attractive Sally.

Conclusion
The story finishes up after a whirlpool of comical issues, when Green finds himself succumbing to his whirlwind of a present, Pia. Realizing that his sensations for Pia have developed from inconvenience to affection, Green confesses his love, breaking Sally's heart in the process. Regardless of the ups and downs of their unconventional relationship, Pia and Green end up together, with the motion picture closing on a delightfully romantic note. The film evokes a feel-good ending which leaves the viewers with a warm sensation of fulfillment.

Total Impression
"The Girl Who Came Gift-Wrapped" is an enjoyable mix of funny and romance that handles to keep the audience captivated throughout. The character portrayals are well-executed, and the storyline, while basic in its essence, is filled with weaves, making it satisfying and appealing. The outstanding performances, integrated with a high dose of humor and light-hearted romance, make this movie a timeless rom-com that uses an interesting rib-tickling cinematic experience.

Top Cast

  • Karen Valentine (small)
    Karen Valentine
    Sandy Benson
  • Richard Long (small)
    Richard Long
    Michael Green
  • Tom Bosley (small)
    Tom Bosley
    Harold
  • Farrah Fawcett (small)
    Farrah Fawcett
    Patti
  • Dave Madden (small)
    Dave Madden
    Stanley
  • Reta Shaw (small)
    Reta Shaw
    Miss Markin
  • Louise Sorel (small)
    Louise Sorel
    Sylvia
  • Michael Haynes
    Larry
  • Patti Cubbison
    Cindy
  • Shelley Morrison (small)
    Shelley Morrison
    Louise
  • Carol Veazie (small)
    Carol Veazie
    Martha