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[Love Me or Leave Me] (1955) is a biographical musical drama film starring Doris Day as 1920s and 1930s singer Ruth Etting and James Cagney as her controlling husband and manager, Marty Snyder. The MGM film follows Etting's rise from a Chicago dancer to a top radio and movie star under the heavy, abusive thumb of a Chicago racketeer who forces her into a turbulent marriage. Plot and Themes Rise to Fame: Ruth Etting works hard to become a famous jazz singer and star with Marty Snyder's push. Control and Abuse: Marty's obsessive, jealous, and aggressive behavior creates a dark, suffocating dynamic. Breaking Free: The story centers on the heavy emotional cost of fame and the struggle for personal freedom. Music and Reception Classic Songs: Features hit vocal performances by Day, including "Ten Cents a Dance," "I'll Never Stop Loving You," and the title track. Critical Acclaim: Nominated for six Academy Awards, it marked a major shift for Doris Day, proving her deep talent for dramatic acting outside of her usual wholesome musical roles.