The Luck of the Irish (1948)

Best movie of this year hands down!

Admirable film.

Great movie. Not sure what people expected but I found it highly entertaining.

A terrific literary drama and character piece that shows how the process of creating art can be seen differently by those doing it and those looking at it from the outside.

Low-key back-lot 1940s fantasy, set partly in Ireland, about a journalist's encounter with a leprechaun, and what happens when the writer turns down the leprechaun's pot of gold. Tyrone Power, who we tend to think of as an action hero, is wonderful as the wandering writer and Cecil Kellaway is the rather large leprechaun. This is not some special effects-laden spectacle. In fact, we never see the leprechaun do anything specific, although we know he is responsible for many of the things that happen to the kindly journalist upon his return to New York and to a new job with a ruthless publisher (Cobb) who has decided to run for the Senate. Anne Baxter is the love interest. Kellaway is at his peak, as is Power. A bit dated, but fun, especially two scenes set in an Irish restaurant in Manhattan/

I have to believe this movie was inspired by "Miracle on 34th Street." In both, a supposedly fantastical person (Santa Claus, leprechaun) puts his oar into the lives of some cynical, unhappy people, makes them realize What's Truly Important, and changes their lives forever, for the better. Sappy nonsense, but absolutely enjoyable from start to finish.This is one of Jayne Meadows' first films. I thought I recognized her from an early TV panel show, and I did. She appeared many times on the old "What's My Line" show. She is the sister of Audrey Meadows, who played Alice Cramden on many of Jackie Gleason's "The Honeymooners" shows. Thanks to IMDb for the details that make these old films more interesting.

American Steven Fitzgerald doesn't believe in any of the lore he hears when visiting Ireland. But he knows a pretty lass when he sees one and becomes immediately smitten with sweet, innocent, gullible Nora (Anne Baxter) who believes in faith, family, leprechauns and God knows what else. But then there's that beautiful dame in New York-- sophisticated, smart and, did I mention, the boss's daughter. What's a fellow to do? There's also a sweet irascible, white haired fellow who keeps following Steven and who thinks he's a leprechaun.Lighthearted basic plot has serious notes of ethics and judgment. Should Steven reach for the golden ring of corporate accomplishment or be true to his mind and heart, and follow his love to Ireland?And should we all put a Banshee on whoever is keeping this movie out of print on DVD.

The Luck of the Irish is a humorous, adorable film. The casting was excellent. Tyrone Power is perfect for the role of a writer struggling between seeking wealth and staying true to himself, and Anne Baxter, as always, is a delight to see. Most actresses have difficulty doing an Irish accent believably, but Anne Baxter pulls it off quite well and is not only beautiful, but endearing as well. A good lesson can be learned from this film and there are several good quotations in it. The end is satisfying and leaves the viewer feeling happy and perhaps a little whimsical. The only pity is that this film could not have been shot in color. Can't you just imagine how gorgeous that waterfall would have been in "Glorious Technicolor?"