Review of The Shop Around the Corner (1940) by Sabrina I — 30 Dec 2010

I'm not into romantic comedies as much. I guess that could be blamed on the dismal state of the genre these days. I like very few modern romantic comedies - Annie Hall and When Harry Met Sally for example are two that stand out for me.

However classic Hollywood made some memorable ones. This is where it all started...with the likes of Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart. WIth directors like George Cukor, Howard Hawks and Ernst Lubitsch. They perfected the art of the romantic comedy.

'Shop Around the Corner" has that famous 'Lubitsch Touch' all over it...the tender romance, the wit...the style. It was remade not too long ago..I haven't seen it however I don't think it would be as good as this film.

The one aspect of the film I found the most tender was the relationship between the shop owner and his employees. They had respect and love for each other. I was also rather surprised we are never shown either character's actually writing to each other or anything like that.

I think that's what I like most about this film, it's not what you would expect from a film of this genre. Jimmy Stewart is of course great in this film, that pretty much goes without saying but I also liked his character a lot.

The film touches on his dedication and love for his work. Something I related to quite a bit, since I left my last job. I think about it a lot and how dedicated I was to it. Margaret Sullivan was good but I couldn't help but feeling that maybe this film needed Joan Fontaine or someone like that.

She just didn't have as strong of a presence as Stewart however still, they had charm as a couple. And it worked. Though not a Christmas film exactly but it is set during Christmas and gives makes you feel-good so I would say it's a great film to watch during the Holiday season.

Overall, one of the best romantic comedies...and a classic. :).