Mark Christopher is a successful 35-year-old Hollywood screenwriter who has suffered from partial writer's block since winning an Academy Award and has been unable to produce a decent script.

Not wanting to keep her in jail over the holidays and aware that Mark was interested in writing a script about juvenile delinquency, the kindhearted cop decides to bend the rules (much to the disapproval of his partner).

When Harvey lets slip that Susan will likely stay in a juvenile detention facility until she is 18, Mark impulsively takes her to Las Vegas and marries her.

She is encouraged and supported by Maude, who still regrets leaving her childhood love behind to attempt an acting career in Hollywood.

The film is based on the play Susan by Alex Gottlieb and Steve Fisher, which was originally titled A Present for Joe.

In July 1951, it was presented in Los Angeles at the Circle Theatre, with Robert Rockwell, Beverly Long and Mabel Albertson who directed it.

[4] The Los Angeles Times said the play "should prove the source of amusement for those who know the film town" but "the show doesn't have enough substance to provide an acceptable general entertainment.

Reynolds later admitted having "a mad crush on" Dick Powell while making the film and that "he taught me common courtesy and to treat my crew and colleagues with equal respect.

"[18] Reynolds liked the film, later stating "that little comedy made $5,500,000, pulled RKO out of the red and then Howard Hughes sold the studio".

The film was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Music, Original Song ("Hold My Hand" sung by Don Cornell) and Best Sound, Recording (John O.