This Happy Feeling is based on the F. Hugh Herbert play For Love or Money. Debbie Reynolds plays impulsive Janet Blake, who develops a crush on retired stage star Preston Mitchell (Curt Jurgens). Rejuvenated by Janet's ardor, Mitchell decides to return to the stage, where he must contend with predatory leading lady Nita Holloway (Alexis Smith) and pretentious method actor Tony Manza (Troy Donahue). Meanwhile, Janet begins evincing a preference for Mitchell's neighbor Bill Tremaine (John Saxon), who is closer to her own age. Some extra laughs are provided by the booze-laced pancakes served up by pixieish housekeeper Mrs. Early (Estelle Winwood).
~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide