Summary of the Background"Young as You Feel" is an American pre-Code comedy film released in 1931. Directed by Frank Borzage and produced by Fox Film Corporation, the movie features an ensemble cast consisting of Will Rogers, Fifi D'Orsay, and Lucien Littlefield. The film is based on a play, "Seventeen", composed by Booth Tarkington, painting a light-hearted photo of the complexities of the senior in a youthful romance.
Plot SummaryThe core of the story revolves around the Hardy family. The protagonist, John "Jack" Hardy (played by Will Rogers), is the dad of three vibrant kids, who is being required to retire from his task at an Insurance business due to his age. Unwilling to go quietly, Jack develops a scheme to prevent retirement, helped by his amusing and smart mother-in-law, Grandma (played by Beryl Mercer).
Comprehensive NarrativeJack's child, Nelson, has a sweetheart, Marjorie Bumpstead. Nelson presents Marjorie to his household with the hope of weding her. Nevertheless, things take an unforeseen turn when Jack is attracted to the dynamic and flirty Marjorie. To further make complex matters, Jack's employer, Cyrus Peabody (played by Lucien Littlefield), likewise succumbs to Marjorie's appeal.
While Nelson's romantic interests begin to crumble, Marjorie, unaware of both Jack and Cyrus's feelings for her, continues to be the dynamic and fun-loving young woman. Meanwhile, Jack, sustained by the denial of his retirement and the newfound vibrant trigger kindled by Marjorie, cooks up a plan. He chooses to impersonate the business's owner to prevent his forced retirement.
Comedic ClimaxThe climax emerges when the genuine business owner visits, resulting in a series of comedic confusions and mirthful scenarios. As the fact unravels and identities get revealed, the awareness strikes each character. Jack finds out the worth of his position as a daddy and how age need not always define the spirit of a person. Cyrus finds his solace in other places, while Marjorie realizes the love she has for young Nelson.
Conclusion"Young as You Feel" tackles the generational gap and age-related issues of the time with an indulgent sense of humor. It shows the battle between avoiding one's age to feel vibrant and accepting the wisdom that includes aging with dignity.
The film also subtly highlights the contrast in between the vibrant energy of a more youthful generation and the gotten knowledge of the elderly. At the same time, it emphasizes that age is just a number and does not bind the spirit of life and love.
The movie ends on a favorable note with Jack redefining age and turning a laughter-filled fiasco into a profound message about getting older. In a comedic twist of occasions, Jack recognizes that feeling young is not about acting young however embracing the experiences and knowledge that feature age. The movie wraps up with the reinstatement of Jack in his job and the romance between Nelson and Marjorie blossoming, indicating an acceptance of the natural order of life and age. In all, "Young as You Feel" is an easy going comedy that takes an entertaining take a look at aging while commemorating the concept of staying 'young at heart'.
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