But Not for Me Poster

But Not for Me 1959

★ 6.08 votes111 min📅 1959-08-19

"It's a scream!"

In *But Not for Me (1959)*, Walter Lang directs a witty, fast-paced romantic comedy that blends Broadway glamour with the unforeseen twists of a second chance at love.

Director: Walter Lang

Cast

Clark Gable
Clark Gable
Russell 'Russ' Ward
Carroll Baker
Carroll Baker
Ellie Brown / Borden
Lilli Palmer
Lilli Palmer
Kathryn Ward
Lee J. Cobb
Lee J. Cobb
Jeremiah MacDonald
Barry Coe
Barry Coe
Gordon Reynolds
Thomas Gomez
Thomas Gomez
Demetrios Bacos
Charles Lane
Charles Lane
Al Atwood
Wendell Holmes
Wendell Holmes
Miles Montgomery
Tom Duggan
Roy Morton
Saverio LoMedico
Emile

Frequently Asked Questions

What is But Not for Me (1959) about?

The film follows Broadway producer Russ Ward, who's ready to retire until his young secretary declares her love for him. Inspired, Ward revives his career by writing a play centered on their May-December romance, but his ex-wife isn't about to let him off the hook so easily.

Who directed But Not for Me?

Walter Lang directed *But Not for Me (1959)*, known for his work in classic Hollywood comedies and musicals.

Who stars in But Not for Me?

The film features Clark Gable, Carroll Baker, Lilli Palmer, Lee J. Cobb, and Barry Coe as the main cast.

Is But Not for Me (1959) worth watching?

As a lighthearted romantic comedy, *But Not for Me* delivers charm and wit, especially for fans of Golden Age Hollywood. While it may not be a landmark film, its playful energy and strong performances make it a pleasant watch for classic movie enthusiasts.

How long is But Not for Me?

*But Not for Me* has a runtime of 111 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About But Not for Me (1959) — Classic Romantic Comedy with Clark Gable

In *But Not for Me (1959)*, Walter Lang directs a witty, fast-paced romantic comedy that blends Broadway glamour with the unforeseen twists of a second chance at love. Clark Gable stars as Russ Ward, a jaded Broadway producer on the brink of retirement, convinced his best days are behind him. When his young secretary, Ellie Brown (Carroll Baker), unexpectedly confesses her feelings, Ward sees an opportunity to revive his career—inspired to craft a May-December romance showcasing her talent. The film crackles with sharp dialogue and playful banter, navigating the complexities of love, ambition, and second chances against the backdrop of New York's theater scene. With themes of renewal and the unexpected joys of life's detours, it's a charming reminder that passion and purpose aren't always tied to age.

Lilli Palmer and Lee J. Cobb add depth as Ward's sharp-witted ex-wife and a stern playwright, respectively, while Barry Coe and Thomas Gomez round out the cast in this lighthearted yet insightful tale. Lang's direction keeps the energy brisk, balancing humor with moments of sincerity, making *But Not for Me* a delightful escape for fans of classic romantic comedies.