Review of The Philadelphia Story (1940) by Steven S — 25 Jul 2009

When I watch a romantic comedy, I always expect there to be a story with a conflict and little humor. The Philadelphia story does just that...just better, MUCH better. God, what a wonderful movie. The story about a woman named Tracy Lord, a rich woman who is just about to be re-married.

But before she could really plan her marriage out, her ex-husband, Dexter Haven, arrives trying to get a story for Spy Magazine. Joining him is tabloid reporter, Mike Connor, who tends to have a personality that is tough, but has such sweet writing.

The water begins to boil hot after bizzare things start happening with everyone as Dexter and Tracy begin to look at each other differently. Having Tracy doing this, she begins to realize what kind of woman she truly is.

Especially after one of the greatest scenes where something happens between Tracy and Mike after a pre-wedding party. The movie is filled with so many funny lines, and just an astounding screenplay, it makes you wonder why this movie is the prince of romantic comedies.

The casting couldn't be more perfect. Having Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn playing Dexter and Tracy, they have such perfect chemistry together, and having their rants go so fast, it's hard to keep up.

And, of course, what more could I say about James Stewarts marvelous performance as Mike Connor. His character was so well constrcuted, especially during the scene where he is drunk at the pre-wedding party.

You almost believe that he was really drunk while filming the scenes, with the sounds that he makes and the faces he creates, enhancing his performance. A well-deserved academy award for Jimmy's performance and the amazing screenplay that has been written for this.

What a marvelous movie, makes me wish that there were more films like this. Unfortunately, there is not, sadly. But this movie is my hero that makes up for that, because I don't think there is a movie like The Philadelphia Story that would top this.