Morning Glory

Eva Lovelace, an aspiring performer from a small town, relentlessly pursues Broadway opportunities, attending numerous auditions despite constant setbacks. Her determination and hunger for fame set the stage for the story's dramatic arc. Even when things look bleak, she keeps pushing toward a larger stage.

At the Easton Theatre's management office, Rita Vernon negotiates a deal with owner Louis Easton. She agrees to take a small role in exchange for the ability to choose roles in the next production, revealing her self-serving nature. The arrangement creates a tense dynamic between Rita, Easton, and Eva's hopes.

Robert Hedges, a veteran actor, notices Eva's raw energy and decides to mentor her. He offers guidance and support as she struggles to land meaningful roles. His intervention plants the seed for Eva's eventual breakthrough.

Playwright Joseph Sheridan is captivated by Eva's vibrant personality. He becomes a guiding presence who admires her talent and helps when possible. His secret affection also sows the seeds for later romantic tension.

Months pass as Eva struggles to land significant roles and support herself financially, moving from place to place. The constant searching and setbacks threaten her dream and her resolve. Yet she remains determined to persevere.

Hedges finds Eva in a desperate situation and takes her to a celebrity party at Easton's apartment. The intoxication and spectacle culminate in Eva delivering powerful Shakespearean monologues before crashing to sleep. Easton feels guilty about exploiting her and discusses the night with Sheridan.

The next morning, Easton confesses to Sheridan that he took advantage of Eva's innocence. He asks for Sheridan's help to handle the situation while keeping Eva in the dark.

Sheridan, secretly in love with Eva, chooses not to reveal the truth to her. He hopes to spare Eva pain, but his silence dims her trust and fuels a growing sense of loneliness.

Months later, Rita pushes for a higher salary and half the profits from Sheridan's new play. Easton contemplates giving in, but Sheridan suggests casting Eva as a surprise understudy instead, changing the power dynamics in the company.

In Rita's dressing room, Eva wrestles with self-doubt and fear of performing in front of Easton. Sheridan's reassuring words remind her of her talent, helping her regain confidence to seize the moment.

With renewed resolve, Eva takes on the role, delivering a standout performance that marks her arrival on the Broadway horizon.

Backstage, Easton and Eva share a moment of reconciliation and mutual professional respect as she steps further into stardom. Sheridan finally confesses his love for Eva, but she remains unsure about their future relationship.

Eva is comforted by her dresser, the elderly 'morning glory,' who reminds her that true love matters more than fame. This reassurance helps Eva refocus on what truly matters as she faces the demanding road ahead.

With renewed resolve, Eva tells her dresser she is unafraid to be a 'morning glory' and steps forward with optimism about her future. The film closes on a hopeful note as she embraces the road to stardom.