AllMovie

Universal did wrong by Kurt Weill and Ogden Nash when they butchered their glorious score for the film version of One Touch of Venus, but at least several of the best numbers remained, including the marvelous, beguine-flavored "Speak Low," the droll "That's Him" (though in a new context), and the amusing "The Trouble with Women." The studio did far better by casting the luminous, unnaturally beautiful Ava Gardner as the personification of the Goddess of Love. Gardner was no great actress (nor singer -- she's dubbed herein), but this role fits her like a glove and she sails through the part with great glee. Under the circumstances, it's all Robert Walker can do to make people notice he's on the screen, but he manages to score points when given half a chance. Even better is dependable Eve Arden, delivering wisecracks and witticisms with the unflappable style she patented. Orry-Kelly has provided some delicious fashions for the female leads, making the film's original black-and-white lensing all the more regrettable. Eventually, the fun wears thin and the film starts to wear out its welcome as the story becomes predictable, but it's still a wonderful opportunity to bask in the glamour appeal of one of the screen's most delectable stars.