YES SIR, THAT'S IY BABY

US, 1949, 82 minutes, Colour.
Donald O' Connor, Gloria de Haven, Charles Coburn.
Directed by George Sherman.

Yes Sir, That's My Baby is a very entertaining brief film of the late '40s. It was made at Universal Studios with their small budgets but crisp production values. In fact, many Universal films of the period have withstood ageing (core so that sane of their wore lavishly budgeted contemporaries). The film relies on Donald O' Connor's presence and charm - and he had opportunity to sing, do excellent dance routines as well as some comic turns. Gloria de Haven is his attractive wife. The file is strong in its supporting cast led by a whimsical Charles Coburn as an ageing football coach.

The film takes up marriage and education issues in the post-World War Two era. The returned GIs have families and want to study - as well as play football. This offers the possibility of all hinds of farcical situations which are entertainingly taken up. There is quite a deal about women emerging into the workforce as well as the study force - and doing feminist studies (though this is all resolved happily with everybody combining for the team to win against impossible odds). The film also highlights themes which were emerging about who was to do what in the home and male and female roles in the family. There is some good comedy on this theme. There are also satires on football-playing, college lectures, campuses, football matches and commentaries.

It is interesting to note that the song-and-dance routines are set in a kitchen, a bedroom, a laundromat and an adjoining drugstore - a far cry from the lavish sets of many = musicals. These routines are no less effective for the small budget.

Direction is by George Sherman, veteran of many westerns, comedies and musicals of the '40 and '50s.