Review of Adam's Rib (1949) by Ross B — 14 Jan 2012

A classic Hollywood comedy from George Cukor about the law and gender politics. The film stars Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn as Adam and Amanda Bonner, a married couple who also both happen to be lawyers.

Both end up working on the same case but on opposite sides: the case of attempted murder by Doris Attinger (Judy Holliday) of her husband Warren (Tom Ewell). Adam is the assistant district attorney and believes that Doris is guilty.

Whether the law is right or wrong it is still the law and everyone must abide by it according to Adam. Amanda takes Doris case because she feels as though Doris is getting unfairly treated. She believes that if a man had done what Doris had done, he would be freed because that a man should protect his household.

Therefore Doris should be let off. What follows is a witty court battle that not only tests the professional skills of Amanda and Adam, it also tests their marriage as well. Tracy and Hepburn once again prove why they are a spectacular pair and work so well together.

Any movie with Hepburn and Tracy is a true delight!