Small Town Girl (1936 film)

Small Town Girl is a 1936 American romantic comedy film directed by William A. Wellman and starring Janet Gaynor, Robert Taylor, and Franchot Tone. The screenplay was written by John Lee Mahin, Preston Sturges, and Frank Davis, based on the novel of the same name by Ben Ames Williams.

The film revolves around Priscilla Hyde (Janet Gaynor), a young woman living in the small town of Bangor, Maine. Discontent with her uneventful life, she longs for adventure and romance. Her opportunity arises when she meets Bob Dakin (Robert Taylor), a wealthy and somewhat reckless young doctor from Boston who is passing through town. After a night of drinking and impulsiveness, Priscilla and Bob marry, much to the dismay of both their families and particularly Dorothy (Binnie Barnes), Bob's sophisticated and possessive girlfriend.

The marriage is met with resistance and misunderstandings, compounded by the vast differences in their backgrounds and personalities. Bob initially regrets his impulsive decision and plans to have the marriage annulled. However, as Priscilla attempts to navigate Boston society and win over Bob's family and friends, he begins to appreciate her genuine nature and charm.

The film follows Priscilla's journey as she adapts to her new life, faces the challenges of cultural differences, and ultimately wins Bob's heart. Franchot Tone plays Dr. Dick, a kind and sensible friend of Bob's, who provides support and acts as a foil to Bob's initial arrogance. The film explores themes of love, class differences, and the importance of staying true to oneself. It features a blend of humor and sentimentality, common in Hollywood films of the era.