Review of Under the Yum Yum Tree (1963) by Tonypolito — 27 Aug 2010

Five minutes in, when mid-Century college co-eds start snickering about the goosebumps they get from the mere thought of side-by-side toothbrushes as they are strolling to their Human Sexuality class to discuss uncontrolled glandular behaviors, the viewer knows exactly what dated topics and perspectives are up on deck.

Lemmon's the lecherous Lothario landlord who provides amazingly discounted rental rates to a bevy of beauties, all of whom seem dreamily satisfied with their living arrangements. Ah, yes, those swingin' 60s, just where did they go?

Lemmon's next challenge - ur, tenant - is student body Carol Lynley, fresh-faced out of the sorority house, who's decided to experiment with unwed, sex-free co-habitation. Dean Jones, the hapless boyfriend, arrives toting his toothbrush and a ton of testosterone-based frustration.

Will Lynley turn up the next conquest in Lemmon's red-velvet passion pit, Jones' apron-strung bride - or a nun-in-training? It's your dough, crum-bum, so place your bet.

Lemmon's performance is the film's keystone. He's not given the best of lines to work with - at points the performance is snappy/witty enough - but not nearly as snappy/witty as seen in his better deliveries. Still, all his scheming entertains.

Jones and Lynley don't deliver much viewer interest and they border on being miscast. From his supporting position, Paul Lynde delivers a few bits of adequate sneering, nasal comic relief. Imogene Coca's the housekeeper hanging around broom-in-hand, but she doesn't bring much to the party.

RECOMMENDATION: If you are a true fan of the mid-Century sex comedy genre, it's worth a viewing. Just keep in mind this duo is no Doris Day & Rock Hudson.