No, My Darling Daughter

The events unfold in a contemporary 20th-century setting with urban life in London and transatlantic travel to New York, followed by a countryside retreat in Scotland. The plot reflects an upper-class milieu, where social expectations and business interests shape personal choices. Leisure, travel, and propriety drive much of the comic misadventure, until matters of the heart complicate adult authority.

The story unfolds mainly in London, where Sir Michael Carr runs his automobile business and Tansy first encounters Cornelius. Carr’s business trip to New York introduces transatlantic wealth and social connections that loom over the romance. The fishing vacation in Scotland provides a rugged, outdoor backdrop for secret meetings and the pair’s camping escapade. These locations anchor the comedy of manners and family dynamics at the heart of the plot.

💞 Romance

Young love drives the narrative as Tansy pursues a romance with Cornelius across social boundaries. The relationship unfolds through secrecy, travel, and flirtation, testing the boundaries set by adults. A nationwide chase and the revelation of true intentions create a dramatic pivot in the love story. Ultimately, romantic plans collide with personal growth, leading to an unexpected elopement.

💼 Wealth & Class

The film centers on a wealthy family and a business empire, highlighting how wealth shapes decisions and opportunities. Cornelius’s wealth is exposed as intertwined with Carr’s company, complicating trust and alliances. The social chessboard of class influences who is deemed acceptable as a partner. The resolution underscores that love can transcend status, even as money remains a background force.

🧭 Authority & Independence

Parental and supervisory figures try to steer and control the youths, reflecting a tension between authority and personal freedom. General Barclay’s protective but meddling stance mirrors the older generation’s approach to youth behavior. Thomas’s military background adds a strategic dimension to the pursuit and eventual reconciliation. The story pivots on whether individual desire can outpace strict, rule-bound oversight.