While I don't believe that "There's Always Tomorrow" is a masterpiece, it's a good movie whose quality lies not in the sudsy story, but in the professional work of the director and cast. Watching it seems to take the viewer back to the mid-1950s, a time of prosperity, formality, and rigid conformity, with husbands earning the money and mothers raising the kids. It's also fascinating to see a U.S. toy factory, something that disappeared years ago, and to see everyone wearing suits and dresses at ordinary dinners.

The story is about Clifford Groves (Fred MacMurray), a hardworking owner of a toy factory in LA. He's a top breadwinner for his wife (Joan Bennett) and three kids, who take Clifford for granted and pay very little attention to him. Out of nowhere old flame and successful fashion designer Norma Miller (Barbara Stanwyck) comes into his life and sorely tempts Grove, who ponders his dreary home life and considers an affair with her. When Clifford and Norma spend a few days together at a resort in the California desert, the Groves kids become suspicious. The poignant ending has Norma breaking off the relationship and leaving on a plane while Clifford re-evaluates his family life. Because of a blistering lecture that the kids have received from Norma, the family now appreciates Clifford a little more.

The story is pretty ordinary, but the stylish direction (by Douglas Sirk) and powerhouse acting by MacMurray, Stanwyck, and Bennett are so good that they bring the script to vivid life. In particular, the old chemistry between MacMurray and Stanwyck (as in "Double Indemnity" and "Remember the Night") is just irresistible. The B&W cinematography is also excellent. William Reynolds is good although rather strident in a crucial role as Clifford's son Vinnie Groves, and the acting of the other cast members is tops. This film's not on television very often (I last saw it on AMC and taped it over 10 years ago) so keep an eye open for it; it's worth the effort.