Mark Christopher (Dick Powell) is a successful Hollywood writer struggling with writer's block. War buddy Virgil is his assistant. Maude Snodgrass is his secretary. Isabella Alexander is his girlfriend. Vice cop Sam Hanlon brings over 17 year old juvenile delinquent Susan Beaurgard Landis (Debbie Reynolds) who he hopes would give Mark writing material. Mark allows her to stay instead of the reformatory over the Christmas holidays."Remember you guys. She's underage." That line alone makes this one of the most awkward comedy setups ever and it made me chuckle. Honestly, there are a few jokes that made me laugh. The premise is completely unrealistic. I wonder if it's as awkward for a contemporary audience. This is very light and romantic which keeps clashing with the underage part. I kept repeating to myself that it's another era until the romance takes one step too far. Old timey morals can't excuse that. It's undeniable that Debbie Reynolds is adorable and I want to accept this for her. I would give this a pass if they didn't go that extra step.

Every time I catch Debbie Reynolds in a movie from the early to late 50s, I am amazed more and more each time at how good she is working alongside older, bigger and more experienced actors.She was almost still a kid yet could hold her own with the best of them such as in Singin' in the Rain.And, she kept it up throughout her career to this day even in Behind the Candelabra.I met her once at my job, not in show business, and she lit up the room as much as she does on the big screen.An extraordinary woman who didn't always have it easy in her very public personal life. Yet, she always entertained us with her talent and not her personal issues as many actors have resorted to doing.Who can not smile at the mention of her name? Susan Slept Here isn't really one of my favorite movies but Miss Reynolds is one of my favorite actresses and people.She is just naturally one of the best.

What would a confirmed bachelor, of a certain age, do with the unexpected arrival of a lively 17 years old girl into his life? Reason would indicate to run away from the situation! But have no fear, in the theater, as well as in the movies, these two unmatched people get to grow fond of one another and eventually they get married. That seems to be the premise of "Susan Slept Here", a movie that proves irresistible because of the two leading stars.Under the direction of Frank Tashlin, this movie, although reflecting a naivete not in synch with the present times, is good fun to watch. The film is done with an impeccable good taste and there is never anything tawdry, or out of place with what one is watching.Dick Powell was at his best when he took the part of Mark Christopher a thirty-something man in the plot, but looking older than that. Debbie Reynolds, as Susan Landis, brought her winning personality and charm to this rebel girl that begins a total transformation as she discovers she is attracted to Mark.The supporting cast is also up to task under Mr. Tashlin's guidance. Anne Francis is seen as Isabella, Mark's present love interest. Glenda Farrell, Horace McMahon, Herb Vigran and Alvy Moore, among others make this delightful film into a winner.Mr. Tashlin includes a dance sequence that plays as a dream in which Mr. Powell, Ms. Francis and Ms. Reynolds are seen as the players. The film is festive and it will delight any viewer looking for an easy time at the movies.

The plot of this movie was a bit silly even when it came out in 1954. But because it features Debbie Reynolds at age 22 (playing a 17 year old) -- when she was very beautiful, vibrant, and also quite sexy -- it's one of my favorite films. Everyone seems to concede that the young Debbie Reynolds was talented and spunky, but because of her girl-next-door persona, few seem to recognize that she had more genuine beauty and sex appeal than many overtly "sultry" or "sexy" actresses of her era -- or, indeed, of any era. The rest of the cast is quite adequate but it's Debbie who makes this movie a lot of fun to watch.