In New York, a gambler is challenged to take a cold female missionary to Havana, but they fall for each other, and the bet has a hidden motive to finance a crap game.
It’s a bit of a shame the production went for such stagey sets, instead of evoking a more authentic New York; but this remains an escapist, sing-along joy with a winning edge of grown-up wit, making for a perfect festive season night out for anyone fond of a splash of old-school style.
Brando and Sinatra are on top form, but it's Simmons who steals the show.
The wonder of the film is that it combines widescreen colour and opulence with an earthy, street-level humour.
Verdict: Lovely old classic.
This classic 1955 musical pairs up Sinatra and Brando for a tale of gambling and gallivanting that still never fails to delight.
Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow from Monday December 29, 2014, until Tuesday December 30, 2014. More info: http://www.glasgowfilm.org/theatre/