A Big Hand for the Little Lady
Director Fielder Cook had liked James Berwick's performance so much that he insisted Berwick reprise his television role of barman Sam Rhine in this film, despite his lack of cinema experience. This was Berwick's only screen role of any note, all other appearances being bit parts.,The character "Doc" was played by Burgess Meredith, however in the closing credits his name was spelled "Burgess Meridith".,Henry Drummond: Now then, why is Celie marrying you?
Arthur McKenzie: Because she love...
Henry Drummond: [cutting him off] Because she's homely as a lemon and just as sneaky as her old lady, and every man sets foot in this house needs just one look to figure it ain't worth 40,000 acres and a soft spot for the rest of his life.
[looking at Arthur for a reaction],Featured in AFI Life Achievement Award: AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Henry Fonda (1978),Hello, Ma Baby
(aka "Telephone Rag") (uncredited)
Written by Ida Emerson and Joseph E. Howard
Performed by Marilyn Powell,Like Frank Gilroy's From Noon Til Three(1977), A Big Hand for the Little Lady is a surprisingly enjoyable, and generally unknown western comedy. Centering around an annual poker game in the old West, the film is bolstered by a well-chosen and diverse group of veteran actors at the top of their game giving thoroughly committed performances. At 60 years old, Fonda looks great, and is a master of facial expression;no poker-face here, and Woodward is perfectly cast as his wife. The first rate ensemble features a stellar Kevin McCarthy along with Burgess Meredith, Jason Robards Jr, Charles Bickford and a delightful Paul Ford. The direction keeps what might have been static bustling. Well made film with an authentic atmosphere has a nice payoff at the end. The G-rated A Big Hand for the Little Lady gives family comedy a good name.,