Review of The Happy Ending (1969) by Jay N — 28 Jan 2011

Jean Simmons makes this compelling viewing. The backstory of the film is that director Richard Brooks, Simmons husband at the time, was concerned and aware of Jean's alcoholism and designed the picture not only as a showcase for her prestigious talent, rewared with an Oscar nomination, but hopefully a wakeup call for her.

It didn't work immediately and eventually helped destroy their marriage but she was able to eventually conquer her demons and live sober until the end of her life. The film itself is a scattershot affair what with it's frequent flashbacks and fragmented nature but does have a beautiful score and excepting Bobby Darin very good supporting work.

Shirley Jones is notable in particular in the smallish role of an old college chum of Jean's. The ending is beautifully done, simple and true.