No Sad Songs for Me

Told she has an incurable disease that has left her with ten months to live, Mary Scott (Margaret Sullavan) keeps the news a secret and vows to make the most of her remaining time with husband Brad (Wendell Corey) and their twelve-year-old daughter, Polly (Natalie Wood). When she notices a growing attraction between Brad and his new assistant, Chris Radna (Viveca Lindfors), Mary sees an opportunity to secure a happier future for her family. After hearing that Chris is planning to leave town, Mary first persuades her to stay. Then, after spiriting Brad away for a second honeymoon, she leaves Polly with Chris so that they can bond in the hope that her husband's affair will blossom once she's gone.

No Sad Songs for Me is a tear-jerker from cinematographer-turned-director Rudolph Mate with splendid performances all-around, especially from Sullavan in her final feature role. Newly remastered.

Rudolph Mate directs this sentimental melodrama about a ridiculously self-sacrificing wife based on the book by Ruth Southard and starring a 12-year-old Natalie Wood. Mary Scott (Margaret Sullavan) is pregnant when she finds out that she has terminal cancer with only a few months left to live. She keeps this information a secret from her husband, Brad Scott (Wendell Corey), who is carrying on an affair with his assistant, Chris Radna (Viveca Lindfors). Mary encourages her husband to pursue Chris as a replacement wife and mother after she dies. While on a final vacation with Brad, Mary dies and leaves Chris at home babysitting their daughter, Polly (Natalie Wood). NO SAD SONGS FOR ME features an Oscar-nominated score by George Duning.