In a theatre, auditions are being held for a new musical production. Director Bernie Dodd (William Holden) watches a number performed by fading star Frank Elgin (Bing Crosby) and suggests that he be cast in the leading role. This is met with strong opposition from Cook, the show's producer.
However, Bernie insists on the down-on-his-luck Frank, who is living in a modest apartment with his wife Georgie (Grace Kelly). They are grateful for the opportunity, though not entirely certain Frank can handle the work.
Initially Frank leads Bernie to believe that Georgie is the reason for the decline in his career. Bernie strongly criticizes her, first behind her back and eventually to her face. What he doesn't know is that the real reason that Frank's career has ended is his insecurity. When their five-year-old son Johnny was hit by a car and died while in Frank's care, he was devastated. Partly using that as an excuse to cover up his insecurity, Frank has been reduced to a suicidal alcoholic.
Mealy-mouthed to the director's face, Frank is actually a demanding alcoholic who is totally dependent on his wife. Bernie mistakenly blames her for everything that happens during rehearsals, including Elgin's requests for a dresser and a run-of-the-show contract. He believes Georgie to be suicidal and a drunk, when it is actually Frank who is both.

Directed by George Seaton
Starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, William Holden

In a theatre, auditions are being held for a new musical production. Director Bernie Dodd (William Holden) watches a number performed by fading star Frank Elgin (Bing Crosby) and suggests that he be cast in the leading role. This is met with strong opposition from Cook, the show's producer.
However, Bernie insists on the down-on-his-luck Frank, who is living in a modest apartment with his wife Georgie (Grace Kelly). They are grateful for the opportunity, though not entirely certain Frank can handle the work.
Initially Frank leads Bernie to believe that Georgie is the reason for the decline in his career. Bernie strongly criticizes her, first behind her back and eventually to her face. What he doesn't know is that the real reason that Frank's career has ended is his insecurity. When their five-year-old son Johnny was hit by a car and died while in Frank's care, he was devastated. Partly using that as an excuse to cover up his insecurity, Frank has been reduced to a suicidal alcoholic.
Mealy-mouthed to the director's face, Frank is actually a demanding alcoholic who is totally dependent on his wife. Bernie mistakenly blames her for everything that happens during rehearsals, including Elgin's requests for a dresser and a run-of-the-show contract. He believes Georgie to be suicidal and a drunk, when it is actually Frank who is both.

Directed by George Seaton
Starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, William Holden