One, Two, Three

C.R. MacNamara, a Coca-Cola executive, is focused on advancing his career which includes moving to the London branch. His ambition drives him to seek approval from his boss, Hazeltine, showcasing the competitive atmosphere of corporate life.

MacNamara meets with Hazeltine, who has some unique conditions for his approval. He tasks MacNamara with looking after his daughter, Scarlett, introducing a personal challenge into MacNamara's professional aspirations.

In a shocking turn of events, Scarlett reveals that she has married Otto Piffl, a rather questionable character from East Berlin. This revelation surprises MacNamara, complicating his plans as he now has to deal with the implications of her marriage.

In an attempt to annul Scarlett’s marriage, MacNamara concocts a clever scheme to have Otto Piffl detained by the East Berlin authorities. The stakes are high, and he employs a mix of cunning and humor to navigate this precarious situation.

Just when MacNamara thinks he has a handle on the situation, Scarlett drops another bombshell: she is pregnant. This unexpected news shifts MacNamara's approach, as he now has to present Piffl as a suitable husband.

With only twelve hours to resolve the chaos, MacNamara must urgently orchestrate Piffl’s release while managing the growing panic surrounding Scarlett’s pregnancy. The pressure mounts, leading to frantic and comedic situations.

Amidst the chaos, MacNamara also faces the challenge of dealing with his wife, who has found out about his romantic involvement with his secretary, Ingeborg. He must navigate this personal crisis while still focused on the task at hand.

Ingeborg, the alluring secretary, becomes an unexpected ally for C.R. MacNamara during this hectic day. Her charm and intelligence provide a refreshing balance to the otherwise chaotic atmosphere of MacNamara's life.

The film serves as a satirical commentary on various subjects ranging from the Cold War to societal expectations. This rich backdrop enhances the comedic elements, as the characters navigate their absurd situations.

Throughout the film, an array of comedic escapades ensues, showcasing the chaotic life MacNamara leads. Each event further complicates his plans, serving to heighten the absurdity of the circumstances.

As the situation escalates, all conflicts converge at a single point, providing a chaotic climax filled with unexpected twists. This moment is crucial as it tests MacNamara's cleverness and resilience.

In the end, MacNamara manages to present Piffl in a more favorable light, culminating in a resolution that reveals the towering absurdities they’ve all faced. The comedic chaos settles, bringing a sense of closure to the whirlwind experiences.

As the film wraps up, MacNamara reflects on the choices he has made throughout the day. This introspection leads to both comedic and poignant moments, highlighting the blending of drama and humor.

Marking James Cagney's final leading role, the film ends with a triumphant yet reflective note. MacNamara’s journey captures the audience's attention, leaving a lasting impression through Cagney’s captivating performance.