Matt Drayton, played by Spencer Tracy

Description

Matt Drayton is an older, wealthy man living in California with his wife, Christina. Matt is a life-long liberal who runs a newspaper. However, when Matt finally has to face his own morals, he is stunned at the difficulty he experiences. In determining not only what he believes but what is best for Joanna and his future grandchildren, he finds that talking the talk is far easier than walking the walk.

Matt is the most logical, pragmatic person in the family. Joanna is optimistic and somewhat naïve, while Christina tends to get caught up in Joanna's excitement. Matt looks at reality and sees the difficulties that Joanna will face, so he cannot quickly become excited about her new love.

Analysis

Matt's liberal background makes the viewer certain in the beginning that he will be shocked but okay with the situation. However...