Love & Kisses

Based on a Broadway play that last about a week and starred Bert Convy, LOVE AND KISSES makes for an uneasy movie vehicle for Rick Nelson.

Reportedly dad Ozzie saw the play and bought the rights. Ozzie wrote and directed this 1965 film that deals with married teens (Rick and Kris Nelson) who live with his parents while they try to grow up fast.

It's not quite a sit-com because a few serious matters crop up, so it plays more like an adult version of the long-running ADVENTURES OF OZZIE AND HARRIET, the TV series on which Rick Nelson grew up.

Maybe the best thing is a dream sequence in which Rick saves Kris (who is a stripper) and fights off the scoundrels. It finally gives Rick something to do other than stand around and talk. At age 25, Rick is a little old to be playing the high school kid but he's good at playing "young." Jack Kelly and Madeline Himes are the harried parents. Jerry Van Dyke plays the sister's boyfriend. Pert Kelton is the housekeeper. A few familiar faces from TV pop up: Howard McNear, David Nelson, Skip Young, Alvy Moore, etc.

And yes Rick Nelson (a hugely underrated singing star of his time) sings a few songs.