Review of You Can't Take It with You (1938) by Adrian B — 01 Feb 2011

Although a little long and slow in spots, Capra's "You Can't Take it With You" is a charming romantic comedy from the late 1930's. The lead charcters, portrayed by James Stewart and Jean Arthur, fall in love, but come from two different families, Stewart's rich while Arthur's poor (although Arthur's family is able to afford a Russian dance instructor for Anne Miller's character).

Both are afraid to have their families meet and sadly for them, it happens, with nasty consequences. The art direction, the toys, and the chaos scenes in the restaurant, Arthur's house, and courtroom are quite good.

The acting also is good and it is worth the watch. I just wish it was a little shorter. The other interesting thing is that Anne Miller, who is most well known for the musical "On the Town" was only fifteen in the film and she was already married, which was interesting casting from the producers.

Overall, a nice film. You can tell that this film paved the way for Capra's other famous works "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" and "It's A Wonderful Life.".