Walk Don't Run (1966)

Overview
"Walk Don't Run" is an American romantic comedy released in 1966. It is a remake of the 1943 film "The More the Merrier", and is mostly set against the backdrop of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Produced by Sol C. Siegel and directed by Charles Walters, the movie stars Cary Grant in his last feature film role, together with Samantha Eggar and Jim Hutton.

Storyline
The story revolves around an ultra-wealthy British industrialist Sir William "Bill" Rutland (Cary Grant) who gets here in Tokyo two days ahead of schedule for an organization trip, coinciding with the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Finding hotel rooms almost difficult to secure due to the Olympics, Rutland takes advantage of a situation he overhears. He lands up at Christine Easton's (Samantha Eggar) apartment or condo and manages to encourage her to lease him a room.

Plot Development
Rutland realizes the capacity of a match between his young, handsome business acquaintance, Steve Davis (Jim Hutton), and Easton. Davis is a professional athlete completing in the Olympic Games, and he subsequently also winds up living in Easton's house due to another twist crafted by Rutland. At first reluctant, Easton gradually succumbs to Davis' charm, even though she is betrothed to a stiff, regimented diplomat, Julius Haversack.

Rutland ends up being an integral part in establishing different comedic episodes of the trio together, which set off an unforeseen love triangle. He plays Cupid, producing situations for the young couple to get closer while attempting to prevent unanticipated complications and keeping the trio's living plan a trick from the nosy Tokyo cops and Easton's fiance, Haversack.

Conclusion
Regardless of all the challenges, Easton and Davis fall in love. When Easton's future husband, Haversack, discovers their freshly discovered relationship, it causes a humorous mess. Ultimately, Steve Davis protects his win at the Olympic Games, also winning Easton's heart. The movie ends on a happy note as the couple acknowledges their love for each other, and Rutland departs, leaving them to their future.

Significance
"Walk Don't Run" is noted for Cary Grant's suave and comic timing. It marked the end of his remarkable profession, making his character transition into an older, match-making role converged with his real-life progression as an actor. The movie is likewise unique for its setting and event synchronization, as it catches the buzz and interest of the Tokyo Olympics of the era while weaving it within the plot. The movie is entertaining for its situational comedy, compelling characters, and engaging plot mixed with sweet romance.

Though the film didn't carry out as well as anticipated at the box workplace, it is still valued for its gentle humor and Grant's charming performance. The film got an Oscar nomination for Best Art Direction (1967). Besides the story itself, the movie used an amusing view of Tokyo throughout the 1960s, making it a must-watch for fans of traditional cinema and Cary Grant.

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