Commentary
Most classic movies star young, glamorous actresses as their leading ladies. “The Model and the Marriage Broker” from 1951 is a rare exception, since it focuses on a middle-aged female character played by veteran supporting actress Thelma Ritter. Although Jeanne Crain, who plays a young model, could be considered the leading lady because she receives top billing, the story is really about Ritter’s character of the marriage broker. It’s a rare opportunity for this talented character actress to shine in a featured part. In fact, this was the only movie in which Thelma Ritter was the main character.
This is a charming classic movie whose subject matter is very out of the ordinary. There aren’t many stories about matchmakers, especially in the modern era. It’s really interesting to see how this woman brings people together and helps them fall in love, sometimes even when they aren’t her clients!…