(1956)
2.5
Craig Butler
All Mine to Give is an unashamedly manipulative tearjerker, the kind that will appall those who approach it with a critical eye and will totally consume those who are willing to give in to its powerful manipulations. From a critical standpoint, there's plenty to object to in Give. The filmmakers ceaselessly and obviously are attempting to reach into the audience's heart and tear it out; they want buckets of tears and will stop at no contrivance to wring the last drop out of a viewer. The plotting and dialogue are obvious and platitudinous, and the characters lack dimension, despite the hardships they must endure. Yet it's difficult for even the most hardened critic to view this film without giving in and letting the creators have their way; only the most cynical will be able to keep at least a few tears from flowing, even if he feels embarrassed at giving in to such blatant manipulation from the writers and director. And for those who enjoy this kind of melodrama, Give will be a most enjoyable and cleansing experience. Whatever one feels about the tear-jerking, at least Give is blessed with an expert cast. While one regrets that the very capable Glynis Johns and Cameron Mitchell must depart the film so early, Rex Thompson does an exceptional job of taking up the slack, and there's also good work form Patty McCormack, Ernest Truex, and others. If you're in the mood for a really good cry, Give should be just your cup of tea.
All Mine to Give on AllMovie
All Mine to Give (1956)
