Obliging Young Lady 1942
"Step right up and meet the cutest little bundle of tricks the Screen has discovered in years. She's only seven...but she can out-think and out-talk a battery of lawyers who want to keep her from her parents."
In Richard Wallace's sparkling 1942 romantic comedy *Obliging Young Lady*, a spirited seven-year-old becomes the unexpected architect of a high-society custody battle.
Director: Richard Wallace
Cast
Joan Carroll
Bridget Potter
Edmond O'Brien
'Red' Reddy, aka Professor Stanley
Ruth Warrick
Linda Norton
Eve Arden
'Space' OShea, aka Suwanee Rivers
Robert Smith
Charles 'Charlie' Baker
Franklin Pangborn
Professor Gibney
Marjorie Gateson
Mira Potter
John Miljan
George Potter
George Cleveland
Clarence, manager of Lake Mohawk Lodge
Luis Alberni
Riccardi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Obliging Young Lady (1942) about?
This 1942 comedy follows a clever seven-year-old caught in her parents' bitter custody battle. Determined to reunite them, she deploys her sharp wit against a team of lawyers and socialites. The film cleverly balances humor with a touching message about family and belonging.
Who directed Obliging Young Lady?
Richard Wallace directed this charming comedy, known for his knack for blending humor and heart in classic Hollywood films.
Who stars in Obliging Young Lady?
The cast features Joan Carroll as the resourceful child, joined by Edmond O'Brien, Ruth Warrick, Eve Arden, and Franklin Pangborn in scene-stealing roles.
Is Obliging Young Lady (1942) worth watching?
Fans of witty, old-Hollywood comedies will enjoy this underrated gem. While not as widely remembered as some contemporaries, its clever script and standout performances make it a delightful watch for classic film enthusiasts.
How long is Obliging Young Lady?
Obliging Young Lady runs for 80 minutes, offering a brisk and entertaining experience.
About Obliging Young Lady (1942) — A precocious child's hilarious fight to reunite her parents
In Richard Wallace's sparkling 1942 romantic comedy *Obliging Young Lady*, a spirited seven-year-old becomes the unexpected architect of a high-society custody battle. Joan Carroll shines as the precocious protagonist who navigates a maze of legal red tape and adult posturing with wit that belies her years. Edmond O'Brien and Ruth Warrick bring dramatic weight as the glamorous parents whose messy divorce threatens to overshadow their daughter's future, while Eve Arden and Franklin Pangborn add sharp comedic counterpoints. Beneath the film's lighthearted surface lies a heartfelt exploration of family loyalty and the blurred lines between protection and control.
Set against the polished backdrop of 1940s New York society, *Obliging Young Lady* blends sharp dialogue, clever plotting, and a surprising emotional core. The story pivots on the child's determination to reunite her estranged parents, turning courtroom battles into playground strategy. With its breezy pacing and playful tone, this forgotten gem offers a rare blend of charm and intelligence, perfect for fans of classic screwball comedies.
