As Long as They're Happy
As Long as They're Happy is a 1955 British musical comedy film directed by J. Lee Thompson and starring Jack Buchanan, Susan Stephen and Diana Dors. It is based on the 1953 play of the same name by Vernon Sylvaine. It was shot at Pinewood Studios near London with sets designed by the art director Michael Stringer. Plot. The film is about a US singer named Bobby Denver, who is known as the "Crying Crooner" (a la Johnnie Ray), who stays with a stockbroker's family by mistake when he comes to England . The stockbroker, played by Jack Buchanan, has three very pretty daughters with the youngest Gwen (played by Janette Scott) madly in love with him so much she wants to marry him. Eventually, the stodgy stockbroker deals with his wife and daughter as well as his maid Linda (played by Joan Sims, who keeps fainting every time Bobby sings) being so infatuated. Production. The film was based on the comedy play by the British writer Vernon Sylvaine which was first staged in 1953 starring Jack Buchanan. It ran at the Garrick Theatre in the West End for 370 performances until May  1954. In April 1954 it was announced that Buchanan would appear in the film version; it would be his first starring role in a movie in 14 years. In August it was announced Jeanne Carson would co star. It was Diana Dors second film for J. Lee Thompson. She was offered the lead but was unable to do it but agreed to play a guest part at £200 a day. Reception. "Variety" said it would be "expected to register at home."