A classic example of Classical Hollywood, THE PHILADELPHIA STORY stars three of cinema's greatest stars,
Katharine Hepburn,
Cary Grant, and
Jimmy Stewart, under the direction of one of the greatest, if not underrated, studio directors,
George Cukor. After being labeled "box office poison," Hepburn went to Broadway to preform in Phillip Barry's play of the same name and later optioned the script for a Hollywood treatment. With ingenious maneuvering Hepburn obtained the rights to the play and poised herself to have veto over cast, director, screenwriter, and producer. Although Hepburn wanted Clark Gable and Spencer Tracey as her male leads, THE PHILADELPHIA STORY became a rousing success at the box office and the Academy Awards. Representing the romantic comedy genre that feuled Hollywood in the 1930 and 1940s, THE PHILADELPHIA STORY is a quintessential example of Classical Hollywood genre and star power.
Suggested Supplemental Screenings: IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT (Capra, 1934), TWENTIETH CENTURY (Hawks, 1934), MY MAN GODFREY (La Cava, 1936), THE AWFUL TRUTH (McCarey, 1937), BRINGING UP BABY (Hawks, 1938), HIS GIRL FRIDAY (Hawks, 1940), ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND (Gondry, 2004)
Philadelphia story was very funny. Although not my favorite film of classical Hollywood it sure made me laugh at times and enjoy of a good time. Cary Grant’s character was especially really entertaining. My favorite part without a doubt was the end, which really shocked me in a way but had its humor at the same time. The fact that no one really reacted to when she spontaneously accepted the marriage proposition during her wedding was kind of weird but I guess most of the other people expected this to happen at one point, he was obviously the love of her life. Costumes were really pretty and elegant too. It had a great storyline and a sharp script but I just guess it was too fantastic at times. George Cukor’s class satire gives the movie a good touch and what the movie ultimately says about the nature of love is still prescient. I believe the supporting cast added much value to the movie, without these great actresses and actors the movie would have not been the same.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the screening today. It was a great story and very funny at times. In my eyes it was a cross between Wedding Crasher’s and There’s Something About Mary. Wedding Crashers because the two journalists Mike Connor and Liz Imbrie snuck their way into a wedding for story and to have a good time. It reminded me of There’s Something About Mary because everybody wanted to get with Katherine Hepburn. Gary Grant her ex-husband, James Stewart the journalist, and John Howard the fiancé all wanted to marry her. The performances that George Cukor was able to get from the actors were amazing, especially that of Katherine Hepburn and James Stewart. Hepburn played Tracy Lord a young attractive rich woman who was in a constant fight with her self to balance three men that all wanted her. Mike Connor was one of those men, played by James Stewart he was the one who fell in love at first sight. His unrelenting love for her was seen as he was getting her drunk throughout the party scene, which by the way is the best part of the movie. During that scene everybody was getting tanked, Tracy’s mother and father, her uncle Willie who was hitting on Liz Imbrie the entire time as well as Tracy and Mike. After all the drinking done by Mike I was surprised that he did not blackout and pass out somewhere at the party. He was such a funny drunk; he was like a teenager getting drunk only to blackout and wonder what happened the next morning. His acting in the film is most definitely deserving of the best actor academy award. Cary Grant’s role was also funny as he schemed to get his ex-wife back. By the end we are able to see that the film explores questions of the importance of honesty and truth.
ReplyDeleteI am going to have to be honest, as much as I enjoyed watching this film, it was stupid. I mean really classical Hollywood, try to make everything fit together at least a bit. To me it was just a jumbled mess of great ideas that didn't end up going anywhere. For instance there was the development that the family was going to play themselves up to the reporters. I thought that could have some great comedic potential, but it was never really explored and was eventually reduced to just that the father and uncle switched places. The ending was also kind of shoehorned in there. Its like, I'm Cary Grant and this movie has to end happy, so everyone hop with end up with a partner, forget about the past and that other dude who has to go home lonely and cry tonight and BAM happy ending.
ReplyDeleteThe other thing that bothered me was the script. Classical Hollywood was great at snappy lines, and this film was too, for the most part. There were some exchanges when you knew that you heard jokes, but none of them were particularly funny. They were still entertaining, just not at the level that I was hoping for. Although I will say that some of the reason might have been that Jimmy Stewart and his girlfriend's chemistry wasn't exactly stellar. There were A LOT of laughs, much more than I would have expected. I liked the running joke when the mother would correct the language of the younger daughter and that the uncle was a woman chaser.
All that being said, the rest of it was good fun. It was an interesting story as all of the
I thought that Jimmy Stewart was really fantastic in this film. He was just so incredibly fun. The drunk scenes in the film were the funniest and were a joy to watch, especially as Stewart was talking to Grant. In fact the whole cast was good. I enjoyed them all, just as enjoyed the movie, but once again, I just wish that it would have wrapped itself up better. It was obvious that Hepburn character liked all three of the men and that the men liked her, but the final decision was too easy. Plus, I would have expected Stewart's girlfriend to be much more upset at the fact that he spent his entire night with a woman right before she got married the next day, but whatever, I still liked it.
I adore this movie so much. When I first saw this I thought it was the most whip-smart thing my ten year-old self had ever laid eyes on. It was the first Katherine Hepburn movie I’d ever seen, and it’s where my obsession with Jimmy Stewart began. It’s one of my favorite films ever, and it’s just filled with great performances.
ReplyDeleteI think the storyline is great and innovative, although surprisingly progressive for its time. The divorce and previous marriage are treated almost very casually, especially with such great comedic dialog. One scene that always sticks out for me is when Hepburn and Stewart are drunk. To me, that scene always felt way ahead of the censorship ideals. Especially, considering that the characters aren’t married, nor are they romantically attached to each other. And yet, the whole movie is just filled with men who fawn over this movie, including her ex-husband. It’s actually the most disappointing thing about the film, the fact that Hepburn does not end up with Stewart, which is one of my greatest movie letdowns. But anyway, I really like this film. I think it’s brilliantly written and acted. I really enjoy Cukor’s work; he really does know how to bring the best out of his performers.
I even like the much softer and lighter musical version of this film, High Society. Even though it might be frothy, it keeps most of my favorite things from the original intact, minus, perhaps, the perfect dialog and comedic timing. It could never copy the sophisticated humor, or even the delivery, but why would you try to better something that’s practically perfect for what it was. I guess some people might call The Philadelphia Story a romantic comedy, which I suppose it is, but it is certainly a shameful reminder of the pretty bad stuff that we get nowadays in that genre.
“Philadelphia Story” was jumbled. There were some incredibly awkward moments, such as the now infamous “what in the name of………………….” moment, where she should’ve been interrupted, but wasn’t for some reason and the entire time I was on the edge of my seat thinking, “finish the thought! Finish the thought, no one is coming to help you! Say God, Pete, jambalaya soup.. something!” But on top of those kind of things… that story… and even worse… that ending! Pardon my French, but what the fuck?! I had never seen the romantic comedy done in a three-love-interest format (to my recollection) so I thought it had a chance to transcend the genre a little bit. It had the current fiancé, who, the poor fella, never stands a chance in these kind of things, the ex husband who is back for his last chance, but he is playing more of a supporting role the whole time and kind of just being a dick and told to leave everyone alone, then there’s Mr. Stewart who is at odds with Katherine Hepburn and the whole situation in the beginning and isn’t looking for anything (in other words… our hero). Now, after seeing the rest of the film, novelty aside, I realize there’s a reason they don’t make em like that anymore… because it was nonsensical, expectation defying (in a bad way), and just plain wrong! In the first ten seconds, the entire audience becomes devote in their belief that Cary Grant is a woman beater, but “it’s alright because she leaves him and never comes back.” But… oh wait… she does? Excuse me?! When was that rekindled? Never! How does Jimmy Stewart not get the girl? He’s the archetype “unexpected knight in shinning armor” type, who sweeps the woman off her feet when she’s not looking for it and blah blah blah… And while that bit of the story is rushed… it at least happens! Then they need an ending, and fast! So he has to ask her to marry him to appease an anxious audience… Sure, that happens. Whatever. But she says no! Because Linda (I believe) wouldn’t like it?! Linda? I think the filmmakers made it perfectly clear that we are not supposed to give a shit about Linda. For some reason, its all good between Mr. Connor and Linda after he’s turned down. She waited around… for all of that? Ok… So then our goddess still needs a husband RIGHT NOW… Lets see, who is still in the room? Ah, yes, ex husband who threw me to the floor by the face, who I’ve been asking to get away from me this entire time! Perfect! The end.
ReplyDeleteWHAT IS THAT?! There were some really enjoyable moments in this movie, the like of which you don’t see in most romantic comedies today. They had clever bits, and charm for the most parts, and didn’t just sell their product on names alone, like rom coms of today, and damn! What names they had! You ask someone to name three actors of the era and if its not James Stewart, Katherine Hepburn, and Cary Grant, I don’t know who it is. That would’ve been enough. They could’ve stood there, done nothing and made a profit like modern attempts and romantic comedies but they made a real attempt. Those drunken scenes were well thought out! Jimmy Stewart at Grant’s house was fantastic! But all things good were over shadowed by that crazy girl’s choices at the end. Luckily, we all know she gets a smack for her mistake somewhere down the road.
I was not anticipating a romantic comedy from the black and white era to be very funny, but I thought The Philadelphia Story was very entertaining. Comedy and comedians in general have a much shorter life span because of constantly shifting appreciation of humor, but this film seems to touch upon some universal elements. The story felt very much like a foundation to so many romantic comedies seen today. There is something in the story that is universal or integral to our nature much like dramas that have also stood the test of time. Beyond the great set-up with reporters following a high profile wedding and the ex-husband getting them there, there was a certain level of real drama that the audience could relate to and enjoy. Hepburn’s character had the power and pride that the audience could enjoy, but an element that needed to shift and realize her true potential and capacity for love, which subsequently brought out the same arc in Stewart’s characters who had been very snide and pompous throughout much of the film until meeting Hepburn. It was all of these revelations and the comedy of the situation fused together that made for such a great combination.
ReplyDeleteThe cast certainly shined and carried the film. The dialogue and chaotic spiraling of the story was very entertaining and sharp. There was a great dynamism in the story between characters, and I thought that the film did a great job of keeping the audience intrigued until the very end. I was honestly not sure who Hepburn would end up with, and in most rom coms of our time the story reveals itself quite quickly. The ending carried that same element of drama as well. It felt real and logical. While they were all swept away by emotion and feelings the night before the marriage, the following morning led to a logical unraveling in the absence of alcohol. Instead of some haphazard drama and affair, it turns out Stewart and Hepburn only kissed and swam, and everyone ended up with their ideal match at the very end.
“The Philadelphia Story”
ReplyDeleteSarah Garcia
At the beginning of the film I thought it was very boring, and I did not think I would be able to care for any of these spoiled class of people. Much to my surprise I really grew to love these characters I thought that they were very smart and dignified and at some points very witty. I thought that in the beginning each character was a bit annoying but I ended up really liking their attitudes. The ex-husband was my favorite character, because he was so cute and his relationship with his ex-wife was really cute because they argued but their remarks did not match their looks and you could tell that they were still in love, but they would never admit that to each other. I also liked that this actually mentions that women have the power of chose when it comes to men. In previous films it seems as if women are only picking men based on how much money they make or what they can do for them socially and other reasons, but this film for the first time allows a woman to pick away solely based on love.
There were a couple of things that did bother me about this film first being the unrealistic sound. The sound often times did not include ambient sound for example when the car was driving you barely heard it pulling up to the ranch, but then when the door opened the audience was able to hear that very clearly which was an obvious breech in the reality. Also when they were on a windy street shown by the tree branches swaying back and forth but you could in no way here the wind. There were many other instances in which this sound glitch took place, but these two were the primary examples that I can think of. Making these unrealistic moments really hurts the film, because it distracts the audience from believing the reality that was being presented. By have this unrealistic sound it reminds the audience that they are watching a film rather then being a part of this world.
Another element of the film that threw me off was when the editor would cut to close ups that had completely different lighting or even a different filter on the camera. Once again this makes the audience realize that this story is not real it is being created, and I know the reason that they were doing this was to make the actors or actresses to look prettier, and that does not make up for the fact that because of those decisions by the cinematographer the film seems really fake.
All in all, I enjoyed the film but I do think that there were significant lapses in technology noticeable by the audience, which made the film seem extremely fake. But I think that dialogue and character development made up for the lapses on the technical side.
Yeah, its turning out to be true, the closer we get to present day movies the more enjoyment we get out of these films. At least, given the reactions in the Cosford, I don’t think I was the only one who really got a kick of this film. It may be somewhat surface-level humor but it’s a comedy, so that’s an accepted part of the entertainment. Of course things are a little exaggerated and the dialogue is tongue-in-cheek throughout, but that’s why it’s a fun movie. That said though, I was surprised by that moment when Kathrine Hepburn’s father completely comes down on her with that all too true but harshly stated lecture on her flaws. It was a wonderfully real moment of serious reflection for both her and her father about the story’s situation that we don’t really see very much in today’s romantic comedies. I was delighted that most of my expectations for the plot were turned on their heads; the film did a good job of staying out of predictable conventions that so plague this genre. The ending was especially spontaneous, every minute a switch in attitude for all the couples involved. I didn’t see it coming, but maybe I was the only one. And of course, listening to Jimmy Stewart talk could be an entire movie in itself, its just that enjoyable and ridiculous. I think Nicolas Cage may have been somewhat influenced by him, yet I can’t really place exactly how or why that connection in exists. This may be the first time I’d be willing to watch a movie from this era a second time.
ReplyDelete-Gabe
I found The Philadelphia Story to be very comedic and I enjoyed the vibrant characters, especially Tracy Lord, Mike, and Tracy’s little sister. The dialogue was witty and I found the timing of it to be perfect. There were some points where long scenes of conversations between characters lost my attention at some points but when it picked up, it really picked up. The actor’s performances were great. They were silly and over the top at the right moments. And although Tracy’s actions were not the most ideal, she was still a likeable character. My favorite character was Mike, who was played by Jimmy Stuart. He is the kind of normal guy who people want to root for. I have to give credit to the casting because Jimmy Stewart and Cary Grant look very different and represent two different kinds of men — Grant being the manly and cool guy, and Stewart being loveable and silly.
ReplyDeleteAs with the previous film that was screened for this class, the production code is evident. This was a story of love and sexual attraction; however, it was not explicit, compared to today’s standards. The code is also evident in the end when Tracy Lord decides to marry Dexter and not Mike. Tracy and Dexter were once together and, although I personally wanted Tracy to choose Mike, they are once again reunited how it was meant to be. Mike and the photographer, Liz, are meant to be together because they are of the same class. They both work for Spy magazine and Liz really likes Mike. Mike seems to have loved Tracy for the wrong reasons. She appears to be too much of a woman for him — someone who would do as she pleases if they’re relationship was to flourish and continue.
Overall, I enjoyed this film. It was funnier than I expected it to be. The characters and dialogue were a great combination.
I liked the Philadelphia story a lot because I feel it was the original Rom-Com. It reminded me of so many modern day movies like Wedding Crashers, Gosford Park, and any Katherine Heigl movie. The case is so glamorous, especially Hepburn who demands your attention when she is on the screen. I was blown away by her presence and control of her emotions. The show stopper for me, though, was Jimmy Stewart. I am a huge fan of his and was pleased because I have never seen this movie. Moreover, he is typically known for dramatic roles, but he is a phenomenal comedic talent.
ReplyDeleteThe only thing I did not like was the ending. Hepburn's character development seemed rushed and jumbled. However, I'm not sure the movie could have ended any other way (in terms of her ending up with Dexter) because she would be viewed as slutty.
This is an old movie I would definitely watch again, which is a serious feat. I thoroughly enjoyed The Philadelphia Story and would definitely recommend it.
-Nick
I enjoyed The Philadelphia Story and consider it my favorite film screened thus far. I am a huge fan of Jimmy Stewart and was looking forward to seeing him in The Philadelphia Story for quite some time. All of the performances were great. The humor was also spectacular. I have seen very few comedies from the 30's and 40's but this movie alone had made me want to see more. It's odd how some bits of humor translate so well to the present time where others fall flat. The opening scene where Cary Grant facepalms Barbara Stanwyck was funny because it was so outrageous. I wonder if upon it's release it was funny for similar reasons. I enjoyed the dynamic characters--each brought something very unique to the screen and no two were alike. The ending was a bit ridiculous. It was silly how Barbara's character denies him and does so in part to appease the wishes of the photographer, I don't think she would feel any better. It reminded me of Gosford park because of the rich family dynamic. Overall it was a great film and would see it again.
ReplyDelete-Jeff
This film had me laughing the whole time. The Philadelphia Story is a great Hollywood success with awesome stars put together in one comedic hoedown of pre-marital affairs and straightforward domesticated abuse.
ReplyDeleteKatherine Hepburn was definitely brave letting Cary Grant threaten her with a punch and then face-plant her to the floor. That’s still extremely offensive today, so I’m amazed it made it into this film during a time of censorship- that might just prove to us that domesticated abuse was a more lenient subject back then.
All of the film was quick, clever and well performed until the climax where Tracy and her fiancé George had a peaceful resolution to end the marriage. C.K. Dexter Haven sat around doing nothing most of the time and Macaulay Connor simply resolved the miscommunication of the supposed affair, bringing everything into a happy, tranquil denouement. I found the ending too formulated and fairly unsatisfying.
However, all is well since Jimmy Stewart was in the movie and gave the funniest drunken performance I’ve ever seen. I was in awe at the length of the shots that Jimmy would stammer through and Cary Grant would struggle to hold a straight face. It was nearly like Saturday Night Live waiting for the actors to break character and burst out laughing. He’s a new hero of mine, I think.
-Allison Basham
The Philadelphia Story was one of my favorite films to watch (Stella remains my first choice) thus far. There was a lot of humor in the film and extremely witty lines. My favorite characters were Tracey, her little sister and Conner…. and I can’t leave out Dexter. Tracey has a presence when she is on screen, she is breathe taking to look at and very classy (except when she drinks). Tracey truly did look like a goddess at times, as she was referred to one throughout the film and had a radiate glow to her.
ReplyDeleteThe beginning of the film was a little slow and boring to watch, but after Conner and Liz was brought into the picture, the film was a lot more entertaining. The first funny scene was when Tracey and her little sister greeted Conner and Liz and pretended to act out. Tracey’s little sister walked out with toe ballet shoes on and a diamond necklace and spoke a little French. Then I loved how Tracey came out and completely flipped the script and ended up almost interviewing Conner and Liz, rather than them questioning Tracey as their job requires them to.
Another great part of the film as when Tracey drank too much the night before her wedding, causing her to become extremely drunk and flirtatious towards Conner. George wanted to bring Tracey to bed, but Tracey refused and ended up spending an evening with Conner that she could not remember the next morning. Fortunately, the two only kissed and went for a swim, but George was not happy with Tracey. Although George forgave Tracey, she realized that she no longer wanted to marry him.
The end of the movie was a shocker for me, I honestly thought the ending was just going to be cancelled at first, but I soon realized where everything was going. Dexter was still in love with Tracey, as she was with him (I guess) even though it appeared that she had feelings for Conner, she could not break Liz’s heart. To keep things “classical Hollywood”, it was appropriate for her to get back with Dexter.
I really disliked the ending. You would think someone as smart and as high class as Tracy Lord would spend more time making such an important decision; that being who she would marry. I think I realized that somehow she would end up with her ex-husband (Cary Grant) from the moment he appeared on screen. The film took so much time unfolding this long plot where not much is really happening, and then she supposedly sleeps with another man, breaks her engagement with her husband, and decides to remarry her ex-husband, all within a matter of minutes. It would have been better if they had spent more time developing this plot line. I really felt bad for George Kittredge because he really did nothing wrong. What is he supposed to think when he sees his drunken wife (who has only been drunk once in her life) in the arms of another man? I felt like he was entitled to at least an explanation from Tracy, who overreacts and says that he doesn’t trust her. He was probably right not to trust her because she ends up with her ex-husband anyway. Cary Grant’s character was obviously only there to either win her back or manipulate her which no one really makes too big a deal out of. It makes you really wonder about his intentions because he had many opportunities to try to win her over, and instead he takes those opportunities to insult her or make a joke, none of which she seems to think are too funny. The art direction and sets where absolutely incredible, but the slow pace, long length, and some plot aspects really took me out of the film.
ReplyDeleteThe film was very funny and I enjoyed it more than any other screenings we’ve had in class. I usually watch clips old American romantic comedy films because I don’t find them too interesting to watch the whole film. Watching the whole film got me interested in watching more films like this. The characters played their parts very very good. I love the little sister. She was hilarious and I loved the way she acts. She was supposed to play the annoying sister, which she did but, I wanted her to come out more than she did throughout the film. I was shocked of how a teenage girl was so talented back then when sound in film had just begun.
ReplyDeleteThe rest of the characters were funny as well. Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn were funny and I enjoyed watching them fight the whole time while showing care for each other. My favorite comedy films were Charlie Chaplin’s films but this one definitely topped it. It is pleasant to watch a couple that hates each other, yet they seem to be inseparable. It is cute that Dexter wants to bother Tracy because she is getting married and he still cares about her.
The tabloid reporter and photographer were annoying at first but I ended up liking them a lot. I was shocked when Tracy and Mike get drunk and kiss. For a moment, I thought they were going to end up together because Dexter seemed to be helping them out. He hid Tracey’s engagement ring so that George wouldn’t find out Tracy was there with Mike. Then Dinah tells her uncle that Tracey should stay with Mike instead. That totally threw me off because she always wanted Dexter and Tracey to get back together.
In the end, when Mike asks Tracey to marry him, I was in shock because the photographer was there and Dexter had a surprised look on his face. I really thought they were going to go for it but the ending was much better. It was endearing how Dexter asked Tracey to get married again. The two always seemed like the perfect couple throughout the whole movie. All men treated Tracey like a “queen” and a “goddess” how the Tracey’s father says, but Dexter is the only one that treats her with love in a funny way. Overall, the film was very enjoyable to watch. I definitely want to watch more romantic comedies of that time.
On Monday we saw Philadelphia Story I loved it. I loved it because Jimmy Stewart was incredible in that role. I had seen him in a Wonderful life and Vertigo and he was really good in both of them, but unlike the other two, in this one he was FUNNY. I think he stole the show; I don’t who Cary Grant is anymore. I also think Katherine Hepburn did a great job, but not as amazing as Jimmy Stewart. His drunken scene was also wonderful, especially after learning that a lot of those, or all of them were first takes, and that he messed up some of the lines but kept going.
ReplyDeleteIn terms of the story, I think it was not a good one. You think it’s going one way, then another way, and then by the end you just don’t know what other trick they’re going to pull until you learn that the main character is going to marry Cary Grant, which I though it was wrong for them to do. She should have married Jimmy Stewart.
Besides that, it was a fun movie to watch. I usually don’t find old humor funny because it doesn’t hold up in time, but I did laugh in this movie especially when Cary Grant facepalms Katherine Hepburn to the floor; it was absurd and unexpected. Overall a fun movie to watch, but they could’ve done a lot better with the story. The dialogue was fine, sometimes a bit too forced and contrived, but the story needed a lot of work.
Beginning with a somewhat shocking whirlwind of domestic chaos and even violence, “The Philadelphia Story” quickly redeemed itself, partly because of the grandiosity of the lead stars, Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn.
ReplyDeleteThis movie was thoroughly entertaining to watch as the screwball type comedy unfolded. A romantic comedy, it naturally followed the pattern we have noticed today of these type of films as it revolved around two people who seem to hate each other at first but end up falling in love. Although Philadelphia Story follows this pattern it introduces a new twist with the idea of being together and in love, then hating each other, then loving each other and once again ending up together- an original idea that I found fun to watch. Not to mention the witty interchange between the Grant and Hepburn was perfectly hilarious. I loved watching it.
With that being said, I did find it interesting the way the movie addressed certain social issues the way I wanted it to and at the same time addressed others in a manor that doesn’t follow the forward way of thinking demonstrated briefly by the way in which the movie handles divorce. I liked how lassiez-faire the movie seemed to be about the concept of divorce, portraying it the way it should be- as not a big deal just something that happens. When thinking deeper about the movie, I am not sure if this idea is accurate or not as the divorced, feuding couple end up get back together at the films close. Although, I guess divorce as a concept is presented as one that is intrinsically separate from what may or may not happen between the divorcees. Either way, I liked how, even if only for a few moments, it seemed as though the film ignored one of the strong standing social stigmas of both the time it was made and of the world in the film itself. The film revolves around the idea of a social class system that is unbreakable and necessary for all to follow, creating a snobbish world for the characters- one not dissimilar to the real world of high society at the time. Perhaps it is because this class system truly existed that the movie ended the way it did, ultimately disappointing me in a deeper moral sense as it did not break the rules I wanted it to.
I enjoyed this film. The Philadelphia Story was okay. There was nothing special about it; nothing that really blew me away. The dialogue was quick. The film was a comedy but it wasn’t that funny. I enjoyed Cary Grant’s performance. I didn’t like how the movie made fun of him beating his ex-wife. During those times abuse was present and ‘popular” among couples and the fact that they made a joke about it was disgusting. In those times, people weren’t really discussing domestic abuse but it was still an unspoken, touchy but prevalent subject material. What was even worse was the fact that she marries him in the end. That damn production code has got to go. Just because she wanted to stay within her “society” doesn’t mean that she has to put up with a man that abused her. I would’ve preferred that she married Jimmy Stewart. Something that stood for me was the pool scene when Katharine Hepburn first tried to get Stewart in the pool. The sound effects were off. The shoot looked too staged. She jumps in the pool and it’s almost as the sound of the splash of water comes half a second too late. Her dive and the camera set up just didn’t look natural. The lighting in this film was crisp. I can’t recall anything that was out of place, too dark, too light or the intensity too strong. I enjoyed Hepburn’s performance. These last couple of films really has some strong women in them. They are the epitome of what our society labels strong, independent women. In this film, Hepburn didn’t need any of the men, she had money, she was well respected in the community, she had high expectations for the men she dated, she divorced the men when they didn’t live up to her expectations and she was sort of a “pimp.” She had all three of these men around whom she had been involved with in one way or another, and they fought with each other over her more than they did towards her about her actions. The transformation of changing the roles of women has been evident in these past couple of films; they’re not the typical stereotypes of housewives and/or stay at home mothers. If only this production code would give way, these films would really be some great hits. I just despise how the films have to end because of the code. The endings aren’t what the audience expected or wanted and they seemed thrown together at the last minute.
ReplyDeleteThe 1940’s film, The Philadelphia Story, epitomizes the Golden Age of Classical Hollywood. This romantic comedy is a perfect example of Hollywood’s shift in power from studios to big name movies stars. Not only does the film star versatile leading lady Katharine Hepburn, but also holds buzz generating names like Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart. The pacing, dialog, subject matter, humor, general aesthetic and even limitations are evident within the confines of this piece of cinema. The film centers around the two main topics featured in screwball comedy: The battle of the sexes and differentiation of the economic classes. In the film. Katherine Hepburn’s character, Tracy Samantha Lord Haven, constantly goes head to head in verbal sparring matches with her male counterparts in the film. The bickering and bantering that ensues certainly falls under the battle of the sexes title. The quick, witty dialog almost feels like a dance in which comedic timing is critically and brilliantly executed. This is somehow seamlessly fused with sexual tension, pure romance and cheesy, yet beautiful dialog of professions of adoration. Unlike a lot of romantic comedies, I was truly surprised with who Tracy ended up with at the end. She was seemingly head over heels for Mike, but in the almost rushed scene before her wedding, a list of reasons were rattled of declaring why she wouldn’t marry him and then she winds up with Cary Grant’s character…I was a little disappointed and mildly befuddled actually.
ReplyDeleteMany of the films we have viewed in our screenings feature woman with multiple suitors such as The Blot, Le Maternal (if you count the children vying for her attention) and Baby Face. It is interesting social commentary to see how this is treated through the eyes of women, the audience, the social climate of the time of production as well as whether the film was made pre or post production code. The Blot and The Philadelphia Story both tackle multiple suitors as well as differences between economic classes. In The Blot, the female character in question ends up marrying “up”, but in The Philadelphia Story, Tracy chooses to stay within her similar social standing.
I thought Jimmy Stewart’s performance was charming, endearing, funny and heartwarming. His skill as an actor is simply marvelous. I enjoyed laughing along with the rest of the audience.
--Brianne McKay
I enjoyed The Philadelphia Story tremendously. It incorporated humor, slapstick to a small degree, and romance. It was the perfect chick flick. The performances were spot on, and it was interesting to find out that the only had one take per scene due to limitations. The story and characters were built on a solid foundation. It was a very easy film to follow. The dialogue was stupendous. It was difficult at times to keep up, but I never felt like I was missing anything important.
ReplyDeleteJimmy Stewart truly impressed me in this film. My favorite scene was when he was completely inebriated and was openly hitting on Hepburn's character and then pays Grant a visit. It was hilarious because it was so close to reality. It is the hardest I've laughed in any of the films we've watched. However, I did not enjoy the ending. I think Stewart's character was so much more endearing than Grant's character that there was no way I could see Hepburn with Grant. Stewart was the perfect opposite force that balanced her out.
Overall, I very much enjoyed viewing this film. It is definitely a movie I would like to see again!
Nathalie Fernandez
For being an avid watcher of the "Romantic Comedy" genre, I can't really say I enjoyed "The Philadelphia Story" all that much. Sure it was funny and entertaining in many instances, what with the witty one-liners and the drunken scenes, but it also felt too long and drawn out to really be enjoyable. I typically don't like my rom-coms to be more than 90 minutes or so.
ReplyDeleteThe actors were all wonderful and delivered outstanding performances. Though I have heard plenty about them before I had never actually seen a film with any of these actors, so it was nice to finally watch these bid name old Hollywood stars on the big screen.
Unlike a lot of other people who have already commented, I rather liked the ending. I sort of expected it only because it is the classic formula for a romantic comedy -- guy and girl don't like each other, guy and girl bicker/flirt, guy and girl end up falling in love and living happily ever after. I felt that Hepburn and Grant's characters seemed to go well with one another and the dynamics of their relationship was ever so entertaining to watch. I also found the themes of marriage and social class interesting. The whole "marrying up" or "marrying down" issue seems to be one that commonly comes up in flicks of this genre.
The dialogue was very fast-paced, which for me at least made it a little hard to follow, but overall I thought the movie was pretty good.
I was very disappointed that I did not have the chance to watch this film on the big screen but instead had to view it on the small screen. I was extremely impressed with how funny "The Philadelphia Story" was. Seeing that this was a film from the classical hollywood era I did not expect the comedy to carry over to my generation, but after seeing silent films and laughing hysterically I shouldn't underestimate films from the past. In the film, the character of Tracy Lords gets caught up in a love triangle that leads to typical slapstick wacky hijinks. The story was adapted from a play which Katherine Hepburn also starred in then adapted to a film which helped revitalize her career. I thought she did wonderfully in her performance and had great comedic timing. After seeing her in this, I would have never guessed that she was labeled "box office poison" by her peers. I felt James Stewart played his typical character role of bumbling hard working man, but to me Carey Grant definitely played a different role I haven't seen him play before. The dialogue was very typical of 1930's films. It was all fast paced and quick, with each characters dialogue being witty. While the dialogue was well written at times it came off as annoying since the characters only seemed to be bantering with one another. This did not affect the enjoyment of the viewing process though since it seemed to fit the characters personalities very well. Overall this was a very entertaining film with great performances from all of the cast.
ReplyDeleteThe Philadelphia Story is about Tracy Lord who is about to get married but than falls in love and gets attracted to her ex-husband, C.K. Dexter Haven, and a newspaper reporter, Macaulay Connor. I enjoyed the film very much and thought it was quite funny. Apparently Katherine Hepburn, who played Tracy Lord, was in a desperate need of a comeback and this film was one of her last chances not to become and continue being box office poison. I think this was a great career choice because even though Tracy was very uptight and judgmental she was still very likeable and relatable to the people even though she was filthy rich. Though the true star of the film had to be James Stewart, who played Macaulay Connor. At first you hated his character because all he seemed to be doing was complaining but once the Rehearsal Dinner Party got started I was on the floor hysterical laughing the whole time. It seemed like he had great chemistry with both Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant as well as, his fellow co-worker Elizabeth Imbrie, played by Ruth Hussey. I have never seen a full on comedic film with Jimmy Stewart in it since I have only seen Rear Window, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Vertigo with him in it. With his drunk speech and confession to Cary Grant and to his flirting and lovely ways to Katherine Hepburn he seemed perfect the role that was not offered to him originally. Though the film was good I did not enjoy some jokes such as the on going bit where they refer to Cary Grant’s character beating up Katherine Hepburn’s character when they were married. Though I guess it was a different time when this film came out and it could have been accepted back than. When the joke first came everyone in the audience sat their in silence wondering if they are allowed to find this funny or even worse laugh. Though people did end up laughing even though I am sure it was an awkward laugh. Another thing I did not enjoy was the ending I thought it was such a cop out that she ended up with Cary Grant’s character and got married right away. It just seemed rush, for an already long movie, and well planned out. It kind of threw away the whole story before that but I might be just a little bias since I was a huge fan of Jimmy Stewart in this film. The Philadelphia Story was alright but Jimmy Stewart really made it what it is.
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