Opened: November 4, 1955

Directed by: Charles Walters

Starring: Frank Sinatra, Debbie Reynolds, Celeste Holm, David Wayne, Lola Albright, Carolyn Jones, Jarma Lewis, Howard St. John, Tom Helmore, Joey Faye & Willard Sage

While its concepts of women, careers and marriage are highly outdated, The Tender Trap still manages to be a nostalgic romance with good comedy and stellar performances.

Playboy theatrical agent Charlie Reader (Frank Sinatra) has a roster of women at his every beck and call. When he sees Julie Gillis (Debbie Reynolds) audition for a show, he falls for her, but her willpower is strong.

Sinatra and Reynolds (despite their age difference) are a perfect pairing. Both make their characters easy to fall in love with, even with their quirks. Celeste Holm is also a standout as one of Charlie’s girls Sylvia, who is motivated and knows what she wants.

The film falls into many of the Old Hollywood traps, but if you can look past its male idealism, it’s a joy to watch.

Final say: Tender and trapped. ★★★☆☆