Review of The Shop Around the Corner (1940) by Mloy X — 30 Jul 2013

Doctor: Pardon me Mr.Katona? Precisely what position do you hold with Matuschek and Company?

Pepi Katona: Well, I would describe myself as a contact man. I keep contact between Matuschek and the customers... on a bicycle.

Doctor: Do you mean, an errand boy?

Pepi Katona: Doctor, do I call you a pill-peddler?

Much like the films of old, what makes this movie so charming is the banter. I loved how they kept it all pretty G back in the days; no unnecessary swearing or violence or nudity, but still managed to make a pretty entertaining story. I prefer this version to the Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan remake "You've Got Mail.". This movie was fairly simple and straight-forward, no unnecessary characters or sub-plots but it was a little corny and naïve, but that's a reflection of the times. I love Jimmy Stewart (who plays Alfred Kralik), he's so adorable and he has good chemistry with Margaret Sullavan (Klara Novak). But I think my favorite in the film was Felix Bressart, who plays Pirovitch and is essentially Kralik's conscience and guiding light. He was Dave Chappelle without the snarkiness. This film was really and thoroughly enjoyable.