Veronica Lake’s iconic imagery was used as a sight gag in the Ginger Rogers and Ray Milland movie The Major and the Minor (1942):
"The Major and The Minor" (1942) is a classic American romantic comedy film directed by Billy Wilder in his American directorial debut. The film stars Ginger Rogers and Ray Milland, offering a blend of humour, romance, and light-hearted deception that has endeared it to audiences for decades.
The plot revolves around Susan Applegate (played by Ginger Rogers), a woman who, after failing to make it in New York City and deciding to return to her home town in Iowa, discovers she only has enough money for a half-fare train ticket. In a bid to save money, she disguises herself as a 12-year-old girl to pay the child’s fare. However, her plan gets complicated when she meets Major Philip Kirby (played by Ray Milland), who, oblivious to her true age, takes her under his wing to protect her during the journey. The situation becomes even more entangled when they arrive at his military academy, where Susan, still in disguise, must navigate a series of comedic and romantic mishaps.
"The Major and The Minor" showcases Wilder’s sharp wit and penchant for situational comedy, elements that would become hallmarks of his later, more celebrated works. Ginger Rogers delivers a standout performance, skillfully navigating the dual aspects of her character’s deception and genuine emotion. Ray Milland provides a charming counterbalance, and the chemistry between the two leads is a significant draw of the film.
The film was well-received upon its release and has since been celebrated for its clever script (co-written by Wilder and Charles Brackett), comedic timing, and the delightful performances of its cast. It also marked the beginning of Billy Wilder’s illustrious career in Hollywood, leading to future classics such as "Double Indemnity" (1944), "Sunset Boulevard" (1950), and "Some Like It Hot" (1959).
