It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) – Frank Capra’s Film Of Reflection

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) – Frank Capra’s Film Of Reflection

by Paul Batters

‘To my brother George, the richest man in town’ Harry Bailey (Todd Karns)

It’s no surprise that Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life still receives accolades and notice long after it was released in 1946. It’s well known that the film did not do too well on release and cost RKO serious money. Additionally, the film received mixed reviews, particularly criticised for its sentimentality (Bosley Crowther in The New York Times). Yet years later in the same publication, Wendell Jamieson would describe it as terrifying for reasons such as the stifling life of the small town, the abandonment of dreams and feeling trapped and imprisoned by responsibilities. It still leaves many critics divided yet will be found on numerous greatest films lists. The seminal classic is a film often associated with Christmas and the holiday season, which is totally understandable, in spite of Capra never intending it as a ‘Christmas film’. It was television which revived the film and It’s A Wonderful Life is usually viewed and celebrated at a time of reflection, reconnection with family and friends and imagining what the future will bring in the New Year.

The aim of this article is not to review the film, its director or its key players. More so it is an examination of what lessons the film offers and perhaps scratch the surface of why It’s A Wonderful Life remains such a thought provoking film. This article will work from the position that the reader has viewed the film and will recognise the turning points and themes being discussed.

It’s A Wonderful Life does have a nightmarish premise – a good man George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart), is brought to despair and about to commit suicide. His guardian angel, Clarence (Henry Travers) is called upon to save him and he is given a run-down of George’s life from childhood to his current situation. Despite being married to a loving and wonderful wife, Mary (Donna Reed) with a family, he has many unrealised dreams. He has ‘sacrificed’ them to keep his father’s Building And Loans business alive and protect the town from the greedy Henry Potter (Lionel Barrymore) who wants to control the town completely. Indeed, it has been the presence of George Bailey that has prevented Potter from doing so.

George will also have his chance to make a Faustian deal and apparently turn around his fortunes. Potter’s offer to George, which will see him realise some of his dreams is a key turning point and whilst the price to pay appears to be the demise of the Building And Loan (which is the thorn in Potter’s side), there is far more at stake. George pulls back from Potter’s deal, rebuking him in the process and maintaining his integrity.

George Bailey’s ‘dreams’ will go unfulfilled. From a young boy, he tells everyone that he wants to see the world; he wants to go places and build things. His plans, however, are delayed and even thwarted by what happens around him; the death of his father which sees him staying to look after the Building And Loans, the marriage of his brother and finally his marriage to Mary. His initial resistance to her is a key turning point where his inner turmoil emotes into indifference, denial and frustration all in a matter of moments. It’s a powerful and emotional moment where he inflicts his deepest and long-held frustration on Mary, declaring he will never marry and he will do ‘what I want to do’. George loves Mary and he will marry her, happily and willingly. Yet there is a dark and uncomfortable truth to the subject of marriage and family that is suggested; and again, the lens through which this is viewed is placed by Capra for us to glance through. The ‘answers’ that George seeks are to questions he himself cannot frame but they are actually right there in front of him. However, it will take a hard lesson for him to finally learn. Perhaps it is one which the audience needs to learn and embrace as well.

It’s A Wonderful Life delivers the message that we all need to take pause and reconsider the lens through which we view the world and our place in it. As much as John Donne declared, ‘no man is an island’, George Bailey feels very much isolated with Potter’s assessment of him as a ‘warped, frustrated, young man’ pretty much on point. Interestingly enough, George does not dismiss or dispute this but instead rages at the truth of what Potter has told him. Shaken by this and fallen into despair, George will need to go through a nightmare to find himself again and see himself and his world through a new lens. In some ways, It’s A Wonderful Life is a tale of resurrection and one that occurs after great sacrifice and a descent into hell. His guardian angel reveals that George has been given a very special gift – to see what the world would be like without him in it. His ‘death’ (or rather non-existence) results in a powerful and life-changing lesson for George Bailey. But that is for readers to see for themselves to form their own judgement.

The ending of the film is one that has often been satirised and also called saccharine. But when taken out of context, Bailey’s great joy at his new found hope and faith in the world and his own life could be seen as overly superficial and sentimental. Herein lies the mistake; what we are seeing in the final scene is also more than a man who has awakened from a hellish nightmare. George Bailey has discovered that his life has its greatest meaning in relationship with others; the community and friends he has and, most importantly, his family. He discovers that we have accomplished more than we have realised and that our lack of presence can leave a huge gap in the fabric of life for those around us. Our impact is greater than we think. George Bailey says that he wants to do ‘something big and important’ and not be ‘cooped up for the rest of my life in a shabby little office’. And yet, he does both. Through the shabby Building And Loan he does something big and important, that makes a vital difference to the community of Bedford Falls.

Yet is there also a danger in seeing George Bailey’s story as one of overt altruism trumping self-satisfaction and happiness? Possibly but this reviewer doubts it.

We all need a message of hope; to overcome and banish the cynicism that has taken root in our hearts because of the pains, disappointments and burdens of life. We have all watched dreams shatter or been afraid or unable to pursue them. Our fears can imprison us and there are regrets for the things we have done and not done. In this sense, George Bailey speaks to us all. He resonates with our own deep disappointments and unfulfilled desires. If that is all we take from It’s A Wonderful Life, then we may miss what Capra was trying to tell us; that each person is unique and their life is a gift to the world and everyone in it. No-one is immune from despair and when George Bailey finds himself lost in a terrible darkness, we can understand that very despair. Here is where hope finds itself born but it takes a descent into near madness for George to find it. The great irony for George Bailey is that to lose his cynicism and learn this lesson, he needs to see a world that is cynical and without hope.

Clockwise from top: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Carol Coombs, Jimmy Hawkins, Larry Simms and Karolyn Grimes. (Photo by Herbert Dorfman/Corbis via Getty Images)

It’s A Wonderful Life is a tale of resurrection and one that occurs after great sacrifice and a descent into hell. It’s more than a modern carbon copy of the classic saga of the hero who needs to undergo great difficulty, challenge and pain to emerge as the hero that will save the day. If that is the case, then we are all heroes, as there is no-one exempt from the challenges, difficulties and at times dark moments of life. This is where It’s A Wonderful Life succeeds because George Bailey is the ‘everyman’; from dreams unfulfilled to driving an old, crappy car where the door doesn’t close properly to feeling caught in the mundane that can be life. Yet these can become obstacles and blinders to the wonderful aspects of life that truly matter – family, friends and the kindness and difference we make to others, even if we do not know them.

As the holiday season approaches and the year comes to an end, the opportunity to reflect on our own lives. The lens through which we view things becomes the challenge and this is a powerful theme that Capra had worked into the film. George Bailey becomes a vehicle for all of us to confront our own sense of worth and the profound impact we have on the world. The genius of It’s A Wonderful Life lies in its insistence that true wealth is measured not in bank accounts or grand adventures, but in the tapestry of relationships we weave. George finally realizes that the richness he yearned for—the ‘something big and important’—was being built all along in his ‘shabby little office’ and the heart of his family. By resisting the temptation of the ‘Faustian deal’ and choosing integrity, he inadvertently secured a treasure far greater than any Potter could offer.


The film serves as an annual invitation to step back, re-examine our lens, and embrace the difficult but beautiful truth George Bailey learned through his ‘descent into hell’: that no life is a failure when it has touched others with kindness and prevented a single injustice. His redemption is our own, reminding us that even in the face of shattered dreams and despair, we possess a gift whose absence would leave the world irrevocably poor.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

Frankenstein And The Monster From Hell (1974): Hammer’s Farewell To Frankenstein

Frankenstein And The Monster From Hell (1974): Hammer’s Farewell To Frankenstein

by Paul Batters

“No, I haven’t given up. I never shall”. Baron Victor Frankenstein (Peter Cushing)

It was my first Hammer horror film and I will never forget the abject terror I experienced watching it as a very young child on television. With my parents at a wedding, my grandmother (an avid classic film fan as well as a fan of horror films) was babysitting and let me stay up with her to watch it. As a young boy, I was horrified and terrified but I was transfixed. Later after going to bed, I was certain that the lumbering simian monster was coming down the hallway towards my bedroom – but of course no-one believed me. In hindsight, I cannot believe that my grandmother let me stay up to watch it, let alone sit through the whole film. But it was my first experience of a Hammer horror film and one that I have never forgotten.

Hammer took the classic monsters that Universal gave birth to and gave them a whole new universe in which to wreak havoc. The dark fairy-tales of the early 1930s were a sharp contrast to the Gothic horror in saturated colour, which also had more than a hint of sexuality to them. Audiences flocked to the cinemas to watch them and new stars were also born. In fairness, it is impossible to surpass the sheer impact and genius of the original Universal horror films of the early to mid 1930s. Arguably, they created and set the template for the horror film (at least in the English speaking world). As for the focus of this article, Hammer does need to bow to the original Frankenstein (1931) and the mastery of Karloff’s performance. Additionally, its arguably superior follow-up The Bride Of Frankenstein (1935) is also a must-see of the original Universal horror classic cycle. Yet despite Colin Clive having his moment in one of the greatest moments in cinematic history (as Dr. Frankenstein witnessing the birth of the Monster and crying out “it’s alive!”) this reviewer feels that Hammer gave us the best Baron Frankenstein of all – Peter Cushing.

Cushing had a long and incredibly prolific career by the time of his final turn as the Baron and would still continue working even through ill-health and personal tragedy around the time of this particular film’s production. What Karloff did for the Monster, Cushing certainly did the same for the Baron. Hammer knew that they could not compete with Karloff’s interpretation of the Monster but they COULD shift the audience’s focus to the name of the Monster’s actual creator – and with this approach they struck gold. Cushing would play the Baron six times in total, bringing a cold and calculated protagonist to the screen which was far from the nervous scientists as twice played by Colin Clive.

In the final instalment, the film begins with the almost cliched scene of a misty graveyard and some nefarious grave-robbing underway. As a nosy policeman watches, he will eventually track his way to a young doctor, Simon Helder (Shane Briant) who, as the audience is an acolyte of the notorious Baron. His pouring through the Baron’s ‘collected works’ is a clever device to build the mythology and mystery of Frankenstein, and indeed Helder is similar in vein to the disgraced Baron. Due to his activities, Helder is sent to an asylum and here is where the story will take an interesting turn.

Baron Frankenstein has survived the last disaster and now resides under a pseudonym at a mental asylum, as the facility’s surgeon Dr. Carl Victor. The asylum director Adolf Krauss (John Stratton) is being blackmailed by the Baron for some extremely nefarious activity, leaving the Baron as the true power in the hospital. It also means that he can do as he pleases, which means continuing his infamous work. Unfortunately, the Baron’s hands are badly damaged (after escaping death from the last instalment) and is assisted in his experiments by a mute inmate, Sarah Klauss (Madeline Smith).

However, his incognito status will be challenged when Helder arrives at the asylum. As an acolyte of the Baron, Helder is also fascinated with creating life and enthusiastically joins the Baron in a shared desire to realise both their objectives. Helder discovers that Frankenstein has already been ‘working’ and this time his experiment is perhaps his most horrific. This reviewer will not reveal too many details; however, the simian monster is as tragic and pitiful as he is horrific, and his final fate is equally terrible. But of course the big question is what will happen to the Baron? That you will have to see for yourself.

Terence Fisher was one of Hammer’s go-to producers and directors and he would take some interesting turns and twists with the character arc of the Baron. A number of writers on the film suggest that the Baron is mad and that this assessment is more than evident in his behaviour and actions. However, this is too easy an out for Baron Frankenstein; indeed the audience is often finding itself torn as to whether the Baron is mad or not. That line that he walks is arguably one taken from the very start and his first creation. It harkens to even the 1931 Universal film when Frankenstein (Colin Clive) delivers his short speech on not caring if people call him crazy because he wants to deliver the secrets of life.

But what is without question is that Baron Frankenstein himself could be the real monster; the horror of his experiments and the cold evil of what he has been doing certainly makes him one. His ‘creation’ is one to be pitied, and whose anger and frustration is justified if not misguided. Despite the horror that the Monster evokes, it is the Baron whose reprehensible behaviour has caused it.

It’s not the most inspiring title and smacks of B-grade schlock and the exploitation that Hammer had succumbed to. Yet, it is far better than what the title supposes. The setting of an insane asylum where Frankenstein can carry out his experiments with impunity is clever, and the introduction of Helder as an apprentice to the Baron is also an interesting development. The gothic atmosphere hangs with dread throughout the film and there are moments of horror and gore which are quite shocking. Yet it does feel at times that Fisher is over-reaching and as terrified as I was as a child by the monster, in hindsight the monster is far more pathetic than terrifying. Indeed, if it looks like David Prowse has just stepped into and zipped up a costume, then one is not far from correct. Thankfully, Cushing is also such an excellent actor that the audience will eventually look past his poorly fitted and designed wig.

The time of the film was also a difficult time for the studio as the shine of the formula was wearing off and the impact of films such as Rosemary’s Baby and particularly The Exorcist saw a huge shift in the horror film. The classic monsters all had become franchises to varying degrees of success but over-saturation also had a negative impact. Even with an attempt at a new franchise (and great potential) with Captain Kronos, Vampire Hunter fell on barren ground. It’s no wonder that Frankenstein And The Monster From Hell was the final entry in the pantheon of Hammer’s Frankenstein films. After all, how many monsters can be made and how often can the Baron get away with it?

Despite the issues that emerge with Frankenstein And The Monster From Hell, (and perhaps my nostalgia gets the better of me), it’s still a fun film to watch and one which any Hammer aficionado should have experienced at least once. As the final Hammer film in the Frankenstein saga and Cushing’s final turn in the role, it does deserve our attention as well.

This article is a proud entry into the ‘Hammer and Amicus Blogathon V’ which is run by two wonderful bloggers, Realweegiemidget Reviews and Cinematic Catharsis. Many thanks to them both for this opportunity. Please visit their pages to read the other incredible entries as well.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

The Unseen Artistry Of Spencer Tracy

The Unseen Artistry Of Spencer Tracy

by Paul Batters

“Acting is not an important job in the scheme of things. Plumbing is.” – Spencer Tracy

Spencer Tracy stands as a titan of classic Hollywood. As an actor revered by peers and critics alike, his enduring legacy is for a seemingly paradoxical quality: his profound ability to “not act.” While many of his contemporaries were celebrated for their flamboyant portrayals or striking matinee idol looks (and in a number of cases some serious scenery chewing), Tracy’s brilliance lay in his utterly natural, understated, and intensely authentic performances. He was the quintessential “everyman,” yet imbued each role with a quiet gravitas and an emotional depth that resonated deeply with audiences. This subtle mastery, which Humphrey Bogart famously described as not seeing “the mechanism working, the wheels turning,” is what cemented his place among the greatest actors of the 20th century.

The above quote from Tracy on the importance and significance of acting is very much a reflection of the humility of the man. He would undoubtedly not sit comfortably with the description given to him by many on his brilliance as an actor – and indeed the thoughts of this reviewer may very well have irritated him as well. Yet his impact and legacy remains and deservedly so.

Across a career spanning over 75 films and garnering nine Academy Award nominations, Tracy delivered a multitude of unforgettable performances. This focus on Spencer Tracy aims to delve into some of his most celebrated and critically acclaimed roles, showcasing the breadth and depth of his unparalleled talent. To cover all of his films, across numerous genres is too great a task, so the focus is on those powerhouse performances, which saw him embody characters of immense moral fortitude, men wrestling with complex ethical dilemmas, or simply individuals caught in the cruel gears of circumstance.

Fury (1936): Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, Fury is a searing indictment of mob justice and a powerful early showcase for Tracy’s intensity. As Joe Wilson, a man falsely accused and nearly lynched, Tracy’s transformation from an ordinary citizen to a vengeful, embittered survivor is chillingly authentic. Critics lauded his ability to convey profound terror and simmering resentment with remarkable restraint, establishing his reputation for delivering nuanced emotional performances.

Captains Courageous (1937): This maritime adventure earned Tracy his first Best Actor Oscar, for his portrayal of Manuel Fidello, a Portuguese fisherman who rescues a spoiled rich boy (Freddie Bartholomew). While some might view the film as sentimental, Tracy’s performance as the humble, humane, and steadfast Manuel is undeniably heartwarming and genuine. He brought a quiet dignity to a role that could have easily veered into caricature, demonstrating his versatility even in more overtly dramatic fare. Bosley Crowther felt that ‘the simple, strong, loyal fisherman’ was portrayed by Tracy in ‘a grand, vital performance’. Yes, in the 21st century, the charges of cultural stereotyping and his Portuguese ‘accent’ may hold some truth. Yet he delivers a character whose morality and set of values are authentic.

Boys Town (1938): Tracy secured his second consecutive Oscar for his role as Father Edward J. Flanagan, the real-life priest who founded a home for wayward boys. Tracy’s portrayal of Father Flanagan cemented his image as a compassionate and honourable father-figure. Despite the film’s potentially melodramatic leanings, Tracy infused the character with such sincerity and grounded humanity that it elevated the entire picture. His gentle demeanour and unwavering belief in redemption made the character profoundly believable and inspiring. Critic Richard B. Jewell reflected this in his assessment stating that ‘Tracy’s Father Flanagan is the embodiment of benevolent authority. He exudes an innate goodness that makes the character believable, even when the narrative skirts the edge of sentimentality’.

Bad Day at Black Rock (1955): A taut, suspenseful neo-Western, this film features one of Tracy’s “coolest” and most iconic performances as John J. Macreedy, a one-armed war veteran who arrives in a desolate desert town seeking answers. Tracy’s quiet determination, subtle physical acting, and unwavering moral resolve in the face of deep-seated prejudice and hostility are masterful. He commands the screen with minimal dialogue, conveying volumes through his expressions and stillness, a testament to his “less is more” approach. This role earned him his fifth Oscar nomination.

Inherit the Wind (1960): As Henry Drummond, a character based on Clarence Darrow, in Stanley Kramer’s courtroom drama inspired by the Scopes Monkey Trial, Tracy delivered one of his most celebrated performances. His intellectual prowess, measured delivery, and powerful monologues, particularly in his clashes with Fredric March’s Matthew Harrison Brady, are electrifying. Critics frequently cite this as a definitive performance, showcasing his ability to inhabit complex, morally driven characters with unparalleled conviction.

Judgment at Nuremberg (1961): Re-teaming with Stanley Kramer, Tracy played Chief Judge Dan Haywood in this weighty courtroom drama about the Nazi Judges’ Trial. Tracy’s resolute and unyielding portrayal of the judge tasked with delivering justice for crimes against humanity is the anchor of this powerful ensemble film. His ability to convey the immense burden of his decisions with quiet authority and deeply felt conviction is truly remarkable, making the complex legal and moral arguments resonate with emotional weight.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967): Tracy’s final film, and another collaboration with Stanley Kramer and Katharine Hepburn, sees him as Matt Drayton, a liberal newspaper editor whose principles are challenged when his daughter announces her engagement to a Black doctor. His poignant, deeply moving, and utterly honest final speech in the film is considered one of his most memorable moments and a fitting swan-song to his career. The honesty and integrity of that final speech, perhaps drew on the real life experience of his love for Katherine Hepburn; and the way she looks at him during that moment may very well reflect that. Yet, it also captured the essence of Tracy’s “everyman” appeal – a man grappling with his own preconceptions with grace and vulnerability. Even tough New York critic Pauline Kael had admiration for Tracy’s naturalistic style and felt that his real-life frailty and genuine emotion in his performance transcended the film’s potential for melodrama. Tracy’s death came only days after the wrapping of filming.

Tracy’s Enduring Influence

Spencer Tracy’s acting style was revolutionary in its simplicity and naturalism. He famously advised aspiring actors to “know your lines and don’t bump into the furniture,” downplaying his own meticulous preparation. Yet, peers and film critics alike consistently hailed him as the “greatest actor of his generation.” Actors such as the aforementioned Bogart, Sidney Poitier and Laurence Olivier, as well as critics such as Roger Ebert, Andrew Sarris and David Thompson, share a consensus regarding his ability to convey profound emotion and complex thought with minimal overt expression. He listened intently, reacted authentically, and delivered lines with a truthfulness that made his characters feel utterly real. He avoided grandstanding or theatricality, instead finding the core of each character and bringing it to life with an almost invisible artistry.

Spencer Tracy’s filmography is a testament to an actor who understood the power of understatement and the profound impact of genuine human emotion. His “non-acting” was, in fact, a highly refined art, one that continues to captivate and inspire, solidifying his rightful place as one of Hollywood’s truly greatest performers.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

Love, Lies, and Bergman: The Emotion and Espionage of Notorious (1946)

Love, Lies, and Bergman: The Emotion and Espionage of Notorious (1946)

by Paul Batters

‘There’s nothing like a love song to give you a good laugh’. Alicia Huberman (Ingrid Bergman)

Ingrid Bergman has an assured place in cinematic history. Not only was Bergman an actress who transcended the screen with incredible talent but she was also a woman who endured criticism for the choices she made in life. Perhaps her greatest strength as an actress was not to be confined by the image and persona that had initially been shaped. As iconic as her role as Elsa is in Casablanca (1942), it is arguably her role in Notorious (1946), that is the pivotal moment in Bergman’s career. Hitchcock classic work remains a key element in the evolution of psychological espionage thrillers and the thematic complexity of classic Hollywood cinema. The magic of the film is due to a perfect storm; Ben Hecht’s script, Hitchcock’s masterful vision and the perfect casting of Bergman with Cary Grant, Claude Rains and a brilliant supporting cast in Louis Calhern and Leopoldine Konstantin.

Following Casablanca, Bergman was established as a symbol of moral integrity and romantic idealism. Alongside sympathetic roles in Gaslight and Hitchcock’s Spellbound, and undoubtedly as Sister Mary Benedict in The Bells of St Mary’s, Bergman could have ‘played it safe’ and rode the wave of that public image. In Notorious, however, she subverted that image through her portrayal of Alicia Huberman, the morally ambiguous daughter of a Nazi sympathizer. Alicia is recruited by U.S. government agent T.R. Devlin (Cary Grant) to infiltrate a Nazi cell in Brazil. However, the mission becomes complicated by Devlin and Alicia falling in love. It is a love that is not so simple, as Devlin is conflicted by the realities of her past and his understandings of the world he inhabits. Further complicating matters, are the orders that she must seduce one of its members, Alex Sebastian (Claude Rains), the leader of the Nazi cell.

What follows is an intricacy of emotion and espionage as both Devlin and Alica navigate their own love for each other and the harsh reality of their mission. Both are often at cross-purposes, missing the mark to what each feels for the other and yet desperate for each other. Bergman is exceptional at moving between the complexity of emotions that Alicia experiences: vulnerability and longing in her complex romantic relationship with Cary Grant’s character, Devlin and the internalised shame and self-doubt as she grapples with being used as a pawn in espionage. Yet Alicia’s suffering is not about romance or posturing for the sake of the story, it is existential to the plot. Alicia is not a simple heroine but a flawed character who has compromised herself for the mission and is torn and manipulated whilst also manipulating others. In the world of espionage, lies and faking the moment is key to survival and success.

But the love between Alicia and Devlin is real. The now famous ‘longest kiss’ has been written about at length. Hitchcock choreographed an intimate, two-and-a-half-minute sequence with multiple short kisses, heightening the intimacy, passion and eroticism of their powerful love. There is a playfulness in the motion of both, as they teasingly dance to their own music. Yes, Hitchcock is toying with the Production Code, pushing it to its limits, via technical mastery. But it is also emotionally raw, and Bergman’s balance of restraint and deep yearning, combined with Grant’s equal control, carries the scene into Hollywood legend. When Alicia whispers “Say it again, it keeps me awake”, it is less about romance than about clinging to Devlin’s love in the face of her own moral compromise. Bergman’s incredible talent seems to be effortless in bringing together her yearning for real love, the risk of being vulnerable and her pleading tone as they kiss. Film historian James Naremore argues that the kiss is not purely passion but a dialogue of need, resistance, and fear. Hitchcock makes the audience feel the strain of a love that can barely survive its own circumstances. Indeed, the fact that it is a love that is clinging to desperation, will be evident in what will unfold in the story ahead.

Further to this, Alicia is also a woman of strength and steely reserve. She may be a woman who is emotionally tormented by the man she loves and sends her on this dangerous mission but she displays immense courage and resilience. Despite being used as a tool by her country and the man she loves, Alicia maintains her inner strength and humanity. The audience cannot help but see her as a heroine, even if Devlin initially struggles to, as his love for her and deep cynicism wrestle in the depths of his soul.

Unlike the clear moral compass of Casablanca, Notorious explores the murky ethics of espionage, where both love and patriotism become exploitative. Bergman’s Alicia is manipulated by her own government, turning her into a tragic figure who is caught between conflicting loyalties. Yet she deeply accentuated her performance with a portrayal that was layered, mature, and hauntingly human. It marked a shift from the luminous romantic heroine of Casablanca to a more psychologically nuanced and modern figure. Critics have long noted that Bergman’s Alicia is a woman divided by passion and patriotism, desire and duty—an emblem of postwar moral ambiguity. Perhaps even closer to the mark was Roger Ebert’s commentary that “she subtly combined the noble and the carnal”.

The love that Devlin and Alicia hold for each other runs the gauntlet of lies that undeniably runs deep in the world of espionage. Both are hurt by each other and Devlin particularly uses a brutal coldness and sarcasm to shield himself from the realities of her past and present mission. Additionally, both have lowered their guard by falling in love, casting aside their cynicism and lack of belief in the possibilities of love and happiness. Alicia drinks and scoffs at the world, whilst Devlin remains cold, aloof and quick with cutting repartee. Yet both cannot deny those feelings and no amount of pain can render their love to the ashes heap. Watch when Devlin comes to Alicia when she is at her most vulnerable and in incredible danger, and how the emotional performances of Grant and Bergman blend into one of cinema’s most sensitive and romantic scenes.

Ingrid Bergman’s role as Alicia Huberman stands as a defining moment in her career — not simply because it showcased her at the height of her Hollywood fame, but because it revealed the emotional depth and psychological realism that would become hallmarks of her later work. If Casablanca (1942) immortalized Bergman as the luminous heroine of wartime romance, then Notorious complicated that image, presenting a woman torn between passion and duty, agency and manipulation, love and betrayal. Indeed, Alicia becomes a battleground for not only the intrigues of espionage but also the love of two men.In many ways, this tension anticipates Bergman’s bold decision to leave Hollywood for Europe just a few years later, where her collaborations with Roberto Rossellini in Stromboli (1950) and Europa ’51 (1952) would further challenge the boundaries of screen acting and star persona.

Looking back, Notorious can be seen as the bridge between two phases of Bergman’s career: the Hollywood star who embodied romance and resilience, and the artist who embraced modernism, ambiguity, and emotional truth. It is here that Bergman most fully embodied what critic Robin Wood called “tragic vulnerability,” and it is this vulnerability that made her performance unforgettable. Hitchcock uses both Bergman’s and Grant’s star power and expressive subtlety to full effect, blending romance, suspense, and Cold War-era anxieties.

Ultimately, Notorious endures not only as one of Alfred Hitchcock’s greatest achievements, but also as one of Ingrid Bergman’s most complex and resonant performances — a film that solidified her place among cinema’s most extraordinary actors and prepared the ground for the daring choices that would define the rest of her career.

This article is proud to be part of the 110 Years of Ingrid Bergman Blogathon run by Virginie Provonost at The Wonderful World Of Cinema. Please make sure to visit and read the other wonderful articles published for this blogathon.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

An Interview with Simone O. Elias – Author of ‘Old Films, Young Eyes: A Teenage Take on Hollywood’s Golden Age’

An Interview with Simone O. Elias – Author of ‘Old Films, Young Eyes: A Teenage Take on Hollywood’s Golden Age’

by Paul Batters

As a fan of classic film, I’ve always held a concern for its future, particularly with younger audiences. The declining access to classic film, as well as a seeming lack of interest from younger generations, has left me feeling pessimistic. I’m not entirely convinced that the future is bright but a spark of hope appeared and provided some optimism, with the publication of a wonderful book – ‘Old Films, Young Eyes: A Teenage Take on Hollywood’s Golden Age’. The best part is that it is written by a teenage author, she’s 15 years old and her name is Simone O. Elias.

Published by McFarland And Co, ‘Old Films, Young Eyes’ is an incredibly insightful examination and analysis of the influence of classic film on popular culture. Most importantly, it provides an exciting and fascinating viewpoint from a young person with a love of classic film, shaped by a far more contemporary world view than my own. This allows for a new perspective and a fresh approach to classic film for all of us.

Noted screenwriter and author, Matt Williams stated that whilst reading Simone’s book he ‘found myself smiling and shaking my head in disbelief at the keen observations and insights Elias brings to her writing’. It’s easy to see why he felt this way. Simone writes with passion as well as a deep understanding of classic film and ‘infectious enthusiasm and sophistication beyond her years’ according to New Yorker staff writer, Michael Schulman. These are keen observations that rang true for this reviewer and it should ring true for all who pick up and read ‘Old Films, Young Eyes’. 

Simone has been very gracious in granting an interview and sharing more about her book as well as her thoughts on classic film. 

Q – Firstly, congratulations on a wonderful and beautifully written book! As a classic film fan approaching his mid 50s, I have developed huge concerns over the future and accessibility of the presence of classic film. When I heard about your book, I was thrilled and renewed a little hope in me that classic film may not be totally forgotten. It may be an obvious question but why did you feel the need to write this book?

A – Thank you, Paul! I felt I needed to write this book because there were no teenage perspectives out there on classic movies and why many are still relevant. There were so many movies and classic film topics that I’d never heard anyone discuss and I thought it would make a great book. Plus, my mother is an author and ghostwriter (specifically of nonfiction), and my grandparents are both journalists, so I had some inspiration there.

Q – You mentioned in your foreword that you had to ‘develop the skill of patient watching’ to get into certain films from the classic era. Could you explain what you mean by the ‘skill of patient watching’ and how you did develop it?

A – In my case, patient watching means the ability to sit and watch a movie you don’t like for up to 30 minutes, for the hope that you will get into it, which often happens. If I quit a movie every time I didn’t like every time, I’d have missed out on some of my favorites. The thing I’ve noticed about old movies is that they start slow and end fast.

Q – One of my great concerns is that accessibility and availability of classic film has plummeted (at least here in Australia but I understand it’s an issue in other countries, too). Whereas classic film was once all over commercial television and cable or Pay-TV, it appears to be more and more absent, even on streaming services.  For example, TCM is no longer available in the UK or Australia and there was nothing to replace it. How do you feel about this observation?

A – While the inaccessibility of TCM in other countries is a problem, luckily there are still easy ways to get free classic films on the internet, such as on YouTube or other movie platforms like Tubi. Also, usually you can find a movie somewhere on the internet, legal or not 😉 but I won’t say anything further on that…if you’re willing to pay $2 you can find a lot on Prime video. There’s also the bright side, which is that finding and watching these films feels like a fun hunt (and if you can’t find it, there’s always DVD and Blu-ray).

Q – You mentioned the concerns around TCM in the U.S as well in your book. It took action from classic film fans who made some noise and thankfully Spielberg, Scorsese et al came to the rescue as well. So, things are ok – for now. What do you think it will take to preserve not just TCM but accessibility to classic film for future generations?

A – Thankfully TCM is doing well, but I’m not too worried about the future of classic movies, especially because of the many teens I know who love them. Classics will be available to watch because there’s simply a market for them, and as these films become more and more “historical,” the more they will be used in classrooms and as a part of curriculums. Preserving film will take dedicated researchers (like me) and archivists who are willing to do the work to preserve the past.

Q – Your chapter ‘Looking at Old Hollywood Through the Lens of the #MeToo Movement’ was one which I shared a similar view on in an article I wrote some time ago for my blog. The horrific abuse that women have faced in the industry since the early days of cinema, sadly shares a long unbroken link till recently. Whilst the patriarchy plays its role, is there something about Hollywood itself that has allowed this to happen?

A – An interesting statistic comes to mind when you ask, which is that, in the 1910s and ‘20s, there were more female directors than now. When Hollywood became a business opportunity instead of a niche creative art form, women were forced out of the non-actress roles, and Hollywood is still recovering from that today. I think the scandals I talk about in the #MeToo chapter were reflections of how the world worked at the time, but on an exacerbated level. The fame these actresses were facing caused them to not be able to speak out, which made it worse. Since Hollywood has millions of eyes, how are women supposed to speak their truth? Especially in a time when it was hard to do that anyway? They had their important, often fulfilling careers at stake, sadly, and many were willing or had to make the sacrifice.

Q – You mentioned Alicia Malone as a role model (and I’m proud to say she’s a fellow Aussie!).  How does Alicia Malone inspire you?

A – I got to meet Alicia at the TCM film festival this year, and I got a photo with her and got to talk for a bit, which was mindboggling and incredible. I’ve read all of her incredible books on women in Hollywood, and which have inspired me greatly. And obviously, her perseverance when it came to her career (her ultimate goal was to be a TCM host and she did it) is so inspiring to me, especially as a woman in the same field.

Q – And finally, you’ve written a wonderful book which is an incredible achievement. What is next on the horizon for you? 

A – Fortunately, ideas are not scarce for me, the only thing is to have time, resources, and energy to write. For this project, it took an entire three months of writing, researching and watching nonstop (I’m talking 8 hours a day), and I must have a publisher and good agent behind me to get signed on for that type of project again. The writing world would be absolutely perfect if it weren’t for the fact that it is incredibly exclusive and hard to work your way into. Luckily, I already did it once! That doesn’t stop me from writing things, and I have a book proposal I’m workshopping (and a novel, just for fun). I’m also a screenwriter, and I screen write a lot too. So, I’m sure I’ll have something out again soon. Thank you for the insightful questions, Paul!

A huge thank you to Simone for the opportunity. She’s a wonderful talent and inspiration to ALL of us to get thinking, writing and sharing our thoughts and ideas. 

Old Films, Young Eyes: A Teenage Take on Hollywood’s Golden Age Paperback (2024) by Simone O. Elias is available through Amazon.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

Kiss Of Death (1947): A Tale Of Redemption

Kiss Of Death (1947): A Tale Of Redemption

by Paul Batters

‘You know what I do to squealers? I let ’em have it in the belly, so they can roll around for a long time thinkin’ it over‘ Tommy Udo (Richard Widmark)

Some of the most omnipresent themes in the world of film noir are those of escaping the sins of one’s past and finding redemption to live a normal, happy life. Henry Hathaway’s Kiss of Death (1947) is a quintessential entry into film noir, examining these very themes with unforgettable performances and atmospheric visuals. The film remains a striking examination of a man walking the thin line between hero and villain, understanding the streets whilst wanting to escape them to find peace and anonymity.

Kiss of Death explores complex themes that were resonant in post-war America, such as moral ambiguity, the cost of survival and the social consequences of crime. Nick’s transformation from self-serving crook to a man striving for redemption adds depth to what could have been a straightforward crime story. It’s what makes the film far more enduring and interesting, as a result.

The film follows Nick Bianco (Victor Mature), a petty criminal who, after being caught during a diamond robbery, initially refuses to turn informant. This choice is one that goes along every instinct that he has. Nick Bianco’s code is one of never squealing, as there’s nothing worse than a rat. Despite the promise of leniency from District Attorney Louis D’Angelo (Brian Donlevy), Nick point blank refuses as he believes in the code that he lives by. His lawyer Earl Howser (Taylor Holmes) also promises to obtain leniency and assures Nick that his family will be taken care of, if he keeps quiet and does time.

1947: Victor Mature (1913 – 1999) informs on his own criminal gang in a scene from the thriller ‘Kiss Of Death’, directed by Henry Hathaway for 20th Century Fox. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

However, Nick will find himself in a dilemma; one which will test the code he has lived by. Despite sticking to his code and protecting his fellow criminals, that code of honour is not reciprocated. In fact, he discovers whilst inside that his lawyer’s promises are empty and his family have been anything but taken care of. Whilst serving time in Sing Sing, his wife commits suicide and his children are placed in an orphanage. (Incidentally, the original script had one of his accomplices having an affair and then dumping Nick’s wife, driving her to suicide from shame and guilt. However, this was too much for the censors). At any rate, Nick realises that his sense of honour and code rested with the wrong people, and he realises that he must do what is necessary to save his children and be a father to them, leading him to turn to Louis D’Angelo and becoming an informer. Desperate to secure a better future for his daughters and recognizing that the system offers his only path to freedom, he agrees to cooperate with the authorities. This pivotal choice marks the beginning of Nick’s moral transformation and his struggle to extricate himself from the criminal underworld.

What follows is a tale of tension as Nick walks the fine line between giving information to the authorities and presenting a front to the criminal underworld as a man who has done time and is still one of them. It is an interesting character arc; one which Mature delivers with poignancy. Nick Bianco’s initial refusal to cooperate is crucial to understanding his character and the moral dilemmas at the heart of the film. His eventual decision to inform is not a simple betrayal but a deeply personal act driven by his responsibilities as a father. Film historians often interpret this as a commentary on the breakdown of criminal loyalties and the harsh realities of survival in a morally ambiguous world. Interestingly enough, it also brutally critiques the so-called criminal code of silence in a far more cold and realistic way.

This character arc underscores one of the central themes of Kiss of Death: the cost of redemption. Bianco’s decision to inform reflects his attempt to leave his criminal past behind, but it also comes with the danger of retribution from those he betrays, particularly the ruthless Tommy Udo (Richard Widmark). Nick meets Udo whilst awaiting prison and travels with him to Sing Sing. Whilst Udo talks and sings Nick’s praises, Nick seems unimpressed. However, Udo is no loud-mouth braggart but a very dangerous operator. Nick will discover this as he treads carefully, trying to maintain the façade of being in the underworld whilst giving information.

Richard Widmark’s unforgettable turn as Tommy Udo is one of the great highlights of the film. Making his film debut, Widmark crafts one of cinema’s most chilling villains. Udo’s maniacal laugh, unpredictable demeanour, and shocking cruelty—epitomized in the infamous scene where he pushes a wheelchair-bound woman down a flight of stairs—make him an archetype for sociopathic characters in noir and beyond. Widmark’s portrayal garnered him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and remains a benchmark for cinematic villainy. The world of noir usually sees its characters motivated by greed or revenge – yet Udo’s sheer joy in cruelty adds an almost surreal dimension to his character. Film noir historian Eddie Muller noted that Udo’s unpredictability and sadism elevates him from a conventional villain to a cultural touchstone. The infamous wheelchair scene is analysed as an encapsulation of post-war fears of chaos and brutality disrupting societal norms.

Additionally fascinating (and perhaps to some degree overlooked), is the film’s portrayal of law enforcement and the criminal justice system. The district attorney’s pressure on Bianco to inform, coupled with the system’s inability to protect him from Udo, reveals the systemic flaws in the justice system. This critique aligns with noir’s broader scepticism of authority and institutions, painting them as imperfect and even complicit in perpetuating crime and violence. Nick Bianco is no angel but his desire for redemption is not for himself as much as it is for his children and the new wife Nettie (Colleen Gray) who has stood by his side. However, this reviewer cannot help but wonder the degree to which Nick is but a tool for their own ends. Louis D’Angelo does appear to display a real human concern for Nick but he, too, is but a cog in the wheel of the machine.

1947: Victor Mature (1913 – 1999) with Coleen Gray in a scene from the thriller ‘Kiss Of Death’, directed by Henry Hathaway for 20th Century Fox. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Victor Mature delivers a restrained and earnest performance as Nick Bianco. While his portrayal sometimes leans toward the stoic, it effectively conveys the struggles of a man torn between his past and his desire to protect his family. Bianco’s reserved demeanour contrasts sharply with Udo’s flamboyance, highlighting the duality of the film’s moral universe. Mature’s performance reflects Bianco’s internalized conflict—his stoicism a mask for his deep emotional turmoil. This quiet resilience makes Bianco a relatable protagonist for audiences navigating morally ambiguous landscapes. Some critics argue that Victor Mature’s Nick Bianco is overshadowed by Widmark’s electrifying performance. Yet this dynamic enhances the film’s narrative, emphasizing the overpowering threat of evil. Kiss of Death’s exploration of moral compromise and redemption continues to resonate, making it relevant even decades later.

Henry Hathaway’s direction elevates the material with his gritty, no-nonsense approach. He captures the seedy underbelly of New York City with an almost documentary-like realism, a technique enhanced by on-location shooting—a rarity for the time. Hathaway’s ability to maintain tension throughout the film is masterful, particularly in the scenes involving Udo, where the menace is almost palpable. Additionally, his direction allows the key themes to shape the mis en scene with meaning and depth, through the exploration of psychological complexity and its reflection of post-war American anxieties. Nick Bianco represents the everyman struggling to reconcile his past actions with a desire for redemption in a society with limited options for ex-convicts. Bianco’s plight is emblematic of broader social struggles in post-war America, where returning soldiers and working-class men faced moral ambiguities and systemic barriers. Hathaway successfully captures this through the director’s eye.

The moral dilemma posed by Bianco’s decision to turn informant resonates as a commentary on societal expectations and the ethical compromises often required to survive. This tension between individual ethics and societal systems of justice is a recurring theme in film noir, and Kiss of Death explores it effectively.

The cinematography by Norbert Brodine is a triumph of noir aesthetics. Stark contrasts between light and shadow, low-angle shots, and oppressive urban backdrops create a foreboding atmosphere that mirrors the film’s moral uncertainties. The visual style is integral to the film’s ability to draw the audience into its dark and dangerous world. The final scenes of the film are particularly adept at achieving this. This is particularly evident when Nick is in his modest but comfortable home at night, looking outside in the dark shadows of the night. He has discovered that Udo has escaped conviction in the courts and that Nick is now unprotected and in Udo’s sights for informing on him. As Nick stands in the darkness, it mirrors his now unsure and even deadly situation; his home is no longer a safe haven and his family is in danger. The feeling of menace and tension is beautifully captured by Brodine’s cinematography.

Kiss of Death is a must-watch for fans of film noir and crime dramas. Its compelling narrative, iconic performances, and atmospheric visuals make it a cornerstone of mid-20th century American cinema. Anchored both by Victor Mature’s measured performance and Richard Widmark’s electrifying debut, the film transcends being a mere crime story to deliver a timeless exploration of humanity’s darker instincts and the obstacle ridden path to redemption.

A noir classic that stands the test of time, Kiss of Death is both a riveting thriller and a character study that lingers long after the credits roll.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

Here Comes Mr Jordan (1941): A Warm And Beloved Supernatural Comedy Classic

Here Comes Mr Jordan (1941): A Warm And Beloved Supernatural Comedy Classic

by Paul Batters

I have an idea, Mr. Jordan, couldn’t we have him reborn? Messenger 7013 (Edward Everett Horton)
Nothing doing; I’m not gonna go through that again! Joe Pendleton (Robert Montgomery)

Cinema has long found itself fascinated with the possible existence of another realm; one beyond the physical dimension of our everyday lives. Since Georges Melies pioneered film to create supernatural stories, the cinema has become a medium to explore the supernatural. Whilst it has often drifted into the mysterious and even the horrific, the dimension of ghosts, spirits and the supernatural can also be heartening, comforting and even comedic. 1941’s Here Comes Mr Jordan certainly falls into the latter.

Here Comes Mr. Jordan, directed by Alexander Hall, enchants audiences with its unique blend of fantasy, humour, and heart. Based on Harry Segall’s play Heaven Can Wait, the film tells the story of Joe Pendleton (Robert Montgomery), a boxer whose accidental death due to a celestial clerical error sets him on a journey through the afterlife. Guided by the poised and otherworldly Mr. Jordan (Claude Rains), Joe is given the chance to return to Earth in another body to fulfill his destiny. The film’s supernatural elements are not only central to its story but are also the key to why it remains endearing to classic film fans.

The film opens with the fateful mix-up in the afterlife, where Joe’s spirit is mistakenly “collected” by an overly eager celestial Messenger (Edward Everett Horton) before his destined death. This clerical error, a humorous nod to the bureaucratic nature of even the afterlife, lays the foundation for a playful yet thought-provoking exploration of fate, destiny, and identity. The idea that heaven operates with a bureaucratic system — complete with mistakes, paperwork, and managers like Mr. Jordan overseeing transitions — creates a setting both humorous and comforting, making the afterlife feel more familiar than foreboding.

The supernatural storyline is further heightened by the character of Mr. Jordan, played with calm assurance by Claude Rains. Rains’ portrayal adds an aura of grace and wisdom, embodying the gentle but firm hand of fate. He is the one who facilitates Joe’s transition into a new life, navigating between celestial duties and Joe’s passionate desire to reclaim his place in the world. Mr. Jordan’s character serves as both a guide and an arbiter of justice, an unusual take on an angelic figure that adds complexity to the supernatural realm depicted in the film. Rains’ performance makes Mr. Jordan one of the most memorable figures in 1940s cinema, embodying a supernatural mentor who is caring, somewhat strict, and subtly humorous.

Of course, Joe Pendleton’s ‘spiritual journey’ will become more complicated, as he finds himself caught up in murder – one where he is the victim, as his disembodied spirit is now placed into the body of wealthy banker, Bruce Farnsworth. This complication drives the plot into one of intrigue and eventually romance, where he falls in love with Bette (Evelyn Keyes). Joe will find himself at a crossroads, asking himself the deeper questions of what is truly important and discovering that the twists and turns of fate have allowed him with second chances, in more ways than one.

One reason Here Comes Mr. Jordan succeeds so well is its light-hearted approach to deep philosophical questions. At its core, the film is a meditation on second chances, the power of destiny, and the possibility of transforming one’s life. The supernatural elements, instead of being treated with solemnity, are used to gently probe the mysteries of life and death in a way that feels both accessible and uplifting. Joe’s accidental journey into the afterlife introduces audiences to concepts like fate and reincarnation without heavy-handedness, allowing viewers to experience these ideas through a humorous and heartwarming lens.

The supernatural element of body-switching also provides a novel twist. Joe, who eventually inhabits the body of a wealthy man recently murdered by his wife and her lover, faces the challenge of adapting to a new identity while still being true to himself. This body-swapping aspect, while magical, also reflects a deeper struggle about the nature of identity and purpose. Joe’s journey isn’t just about returning to life; it’s about understanding who he truly is and what he values most. Whilst this is not novel to films, and works well in comedy, Here Comes Mr Jordan still achieves its aims without being cliched.

Alexander Hall’s direction expertly balances the film’s fantasy and reality. Scenes that take place in the afterlife are handled with visual simplicity and minimal effects, relying instead on the actors’ performances and the sharp dialogue to convey the otherworldly atmosphere. This restraint avoids distracting gimmicks, allowing the supernatural elements to remain grounded and character-driven. The pacing is brisk, ensuring the film flows smoothly between the celestial realm and Joe’s new earthly challenges, maintaining engagement and charm.

The performances, especially from Robert Montgomery and Claude Rains, bring warmth and credibility to the fantastical plot. Montgomery’s Joe is relatable and sympathetic — an everyman with dreams and a tenacious spirit. His earnestness makes the film’s supernatural premise feel more grounded, while Rains’ calm, guiding presence as Mr. Jordan makes the supernatural world feel like a natural extension of reality.

Finally, the film’s humour and charm make it timeless. Situational comedy, especially around Joe’s attempts to reclaim his former life in a new body, keeps the tone light and engaging. Edward Everett Horton, as the bumbling Messenger 7013, adds comic relief with his flustered reactions and nervous energy, serving as a foil to Mr. Jordan’s calm. This mix of light-hearted comedy with existential themes gives the film a unique appeal that has endured for generations.

For this reviewer, the wonderful James Gleason is perfect in the role as Joe Pendleton’s mentor and manager, Max ‘Pop’ Corkle. He brings that brilliant quality where the audience can transform its own mixed feelings of disbelief and incredible relief when Corkle finally accepts what has happened to Joe. His discovery of what has happened to Joe is particularly memorable, with Gleason combining his comedic chops with deep emotion. Underneath that rough, barnacled exterior and tough-talking façade, is a heart of gold. His chemistry with Robert Montgomery works is strong. Yet Gleason doesn’t sell the audience a cliché or chew the scenery, which is perhaps why he was awarded with a Best Supporting Actor nomination for his performance.

In his book Hollywood Cinema, Richard Maltby noted, “The film’s underlying questions about life, death, and morality are woven into the narrative so deftly that they feel like natural components of the story, rather than heavy-handed messages.” Modern audiences may struggle with the film’s minimalistic approach to depicting the afterlife, but this allows for greater focus on the characters and the storyline itself. If a film fundamentally on visual grandeur, then the deeper meaning can become lost. The romantic subplot seems to be more of a vehicle and tool for the story’s fantastical element. As Maltby makes clear, the subtlety of the direction and development makes the film enjoyable and allows an audience to appreciate the thematic concerns with a more open mind and heart.

Likewise, there are predictable elements to the film and it would be easy to condemn that predictability. Yet the audience becomes invested in the character’s arc and the opportunity to reflect on our own mortality. Roger Ebert, in his own review, felt that plot twists and clever surprises were not as focused on or as important as the experience of the characters and of course the sheer enjoyment of the film.

Here Comes Mr. Jordan is more than a romantic comedy with a twist; it’s a deeply satisfying exploration of the supernatural that touches on universal themes in an accessible and enjoyable way. By presenting the afterlife as a blend of celestial order and human error, the film suggests a hopeful view of destiny as something fluid, compassionate, and open to second chances. With memorable performances, especially by Claude Rains as the heavenly guide, and Robert Montgomery as the loveable underdog boxer, Here Comes Mr. Jordan remains a charming and inspiring classic. Its supernatural elements provide the perfect vehicle for a story about life, love, and the possibility of rewriting one’s fate, making it a film that resonates well beyond its time.

This article is an entry into the CMBA’s A Haunting Blogathon running from Nov 11 to 15. I’m very proud to be part of it and be amongst all these illustrious writers. Please visit the CMBA Website to read, enjoy and support all the wonderful writers taking part here – The CMBA’s A Haunting Blogathon

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

The Wolf Man (1941): A Legacy of Fate, Fear and Transformation in Classic Horror

The Wolf Man (1941): A Legacy of Fate, Fear and Transformation in Classic Horror

by Paul Batters

Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and Autumn moon is bright. – Sir John Talbot (Claude Rains)

The Wolf Man (1941) stands as a cornerstone in the history of horror cinema, merging Universal Pictures’ vision for monster films with a compelling tale of tragedy, fate, and the eternal struggle between man and beast. Directed by George Waggner and starring Lon Chaney Jr. in a career-defining role, the film has left an indelible mark on the horror genre. More than just a chilling creature feature, The Wolf Man is a narrative steeped in psychological depth and dark romanticism, exploring themes of identity, destiny, and the beast within us all. This layered storytelling, combined with groundbreaking makeup and special effects, has cemented The Wolf Man as an essential work in the classic horror canon and a cultural touchstone for generations.

At the heart of The Wolf Man is the story of Larry Talbot, played with haunting sensitivity by Lon Chaney Jr., whose character suffers from a cruel twist of fate that condemns him to transform into a monster under the full moon. Chaney’s performance brings a level of vulnerability and torment that grounds the supernatural elements in relatable human emotion. His Larry Talbot is neither villain nor hero; rather, he is a tragic figure whose attempts to find a place in society and live a normal life are thwarted by forces beyond his control.

Film scholars frequently compare Talbot’s plight to classic tragic figures whose flaws or unchangeable fates lead to inevitable downfall. This sense of doomed destiny, reminiscent of Greek tragedy, underscores the film’s exploration of duality and the struggle with inner demons—a theme that would shape werewolf films for decades to come. In The Wolf Man, the beast within is both literal and metaphorical, symbolising the repressed instincts and darker impulses lurking beneath human civility.

The Wolf Man delves into concepts of identity, duality, and internal struggle with a sophistication that distinguishes it from earlier monster films. Scholars have pointed out how Larry’s transformation into a werewolf embodies Freudian and Jungian themes, particularly the release of repressed urges and the unconscious self. Larry’s uncontrollable transformation each month represents the shadow self—the wild, animalistic part of the psyche breaking free. Through Larry’s journey, the film asks: What happens when this hidden, primal side of human nature is unleashed? This theme adds a psychological dimension to the horror, as viewers confront their own fears of losing control.

One of the film’s most celebrated aspects is Jack Pierce’s innovative makeup design, which transformed Lon Chaney Jr. into the Wolf Man in what was then an arduous, highly involved process. The yak-hair applications, careful sculpting, and meticulous detail required hours each day, but the end result was mesmerizing and terrifying. Pierce’s work not only set a new standard for special effects makeup but also solidified the Wolf Man’s visual iconography—the haunting, bestial face framed by a mane of fur, fangs bared in an expression of animal fury and pain.

The transformation scenes, achieved through gradual dissolve techniques and Pierce’s practical effects, were groundbreaking for their time. These visuals have influenced countless horror films and remain a testament to the power of practical effects in conveying a visceral sense of horror and transformation.

The Wolf Man is deeply concerned with the inevitability of fate and the curse of destiny. Larry’s transformation, forced upon him through the bite of a werewolf, makes him a victim of circumstance, symbolizing humanity’s helplessness in the face of certain tragic fates. No matter how much he struggles, Larry cannot escape the curse, which leads him to endanger those around him, including Gwen (Evelyn Ankers), the woman he loves. This idea of fate and tragedy gives the film a fatalistic tone and connects with audiences on an emotional level, resonating with the anxieties of a world on the brink of war in the 1940s.

Film scholars suggest that the film’s sense of doom and Larry’s cursed fate speak to the existential anxieties of the time, paralleling the fears of loss and the uncontrollable forces shaping the world during World War II. This cultural subtext enriches The Wolf Man, giving it a weight beyond typical monster fare and allowing audiences to sympathize with Larry’s tragic journey.

The Wolf Man’s impact on the horror genre cannot be overstated. Its themes, visual style, and storytelling set a template that would shape werewolf mythology in cinema for decades, inspiring films from An American Werewolf in London (1981) to Ginger Snaps (2000) and beyond. It also helped establish Universal’s “Monster Universe,” contributing to the shared mythology that saw iconic characters like Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and the Mummy converge in various crossover films.
The film also cemented the werewolf as a powerful metaphor in horror, a creature who embodies transformation, repression, and the terrifying loss of control. By presenting the werewolf as both victim and monster, The Wolf Man opened up a new space in horror storytelling, where monsters could elicit sympathy and act as metaphors for the human experience. Larry Talbot’s story of tragedy and pathos continues to resonate because it speaks to universal fears: of losing oneself, of hurting others, and of facing a destiny that cannot be altered.

Of course, the story of Lawrence Talbot would not end with this film. With the completion of the canon of monsters, Universal realised it had a heck of a franchise and the tragic monster would re-emerge in several films combining the other creatures. These films would not come close to the masterpieces that spawned the Universal monsters but they would be great money spinners for the studio.

In sum, The Wolf Man is a landmark in horror cinema. Through its rich themes of fate, identity, and duality, combined with innovative makeup and special effects, the film elevates the monster genre to one of art and human tragedy. Lon Chaney Jr.’s portrayal of Larry Talbot as a man caught between humanity and monstrosity has become iconic, and Jack Pierce’s design of the Wolf Man endures as one of cinema’s most haunting visuals. Curt Siodmak shaped a fantastic script and the addition of a legendary cast including Claude Rains, Maria Ouspenskaya and Bela Lugosi lifted the film beyond the usual chiller. Universal had flirted with the concept of the werewolf on film with the solid Werewolf Of London (1935). But the response was lukewarm and it was evident that the time was not ripe for the addition of this creature to the Universal pantheon. Lon Chaney’s tragic portrayal changed all that. Seventy years on, The Wolf Man remains a poignant reminder that the most enduring horror stories are those that reveal something essential about the human condition, blurring the line between monster and man, fate and free will, and human and beast.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

Remembering the great Barbara Stanwyck – A Birthday Celebration

Today is the anniversary of one of the great actresses from the golden years of Hollywood. Barbara Stanwyck had an incredible career, starring in films that crossed genres such as comedy, film noir and westerns and was unafraid to play characters that were unsympathetic as well as playing heroines. Indeed, at least for this writer, she is the epitome of the femme fatale.

In celebrating the great lady’s birthday, I’m re-blogging a favourite film of mine – Sorry, Wrong Number. Hope you enjoy the review!

Sorry, Wrong Number (1948): The Best Of Barbara Stanwyck

La Belle et La Bete (1946): Jean Cocteau’s Cinematic Fairytale

La Belle et La Bete (1946): Jean Cocteau’s Cinematic Fairytale

by Paul Batters

“Mon cœur te choisit. Sans toi, je n’existe pas.” – Belle (Josette Day)

(My heart has chosen you. Without you, I do not exist).

The beautiful story of ‘the beauty and the beast’ is one not unfamiliar to modern audiences. Younger generations will be familiar with the tale from the Disney animation production, as well as more recent versions which have told the story as a musical. Despite lavish production and box office clout, they pale in comparison to the 1946 film created by the brilliant Jean Cocteau. As a masterpiece of French cinema, La Belle et La Bete deserves respect for its innovative cinematography, brilliant set design, and strong emphasis on symbolism and surrealism. It’s a cinematic piece of poetry, with layered meaning and thematic concerns, that transcends time and stands as a legacy for those who love fantasy film.

La Belle et La Bette explores the transformative power of love and compassion, as well as the theme of inner beauty. Yet there are some other fascinating and more complex themes that the film conveys as well, and this article seeks to consider those and discuss them a little further.

The fairy tale tells of Belle (Josette Day), a young woman who sacrifices herself in place of her father who has found himself in an incredible predicament. Finding himself in the grounds of an enchanted castle, he takes a rose from the garden for his daughter. However, the master of the castle, the Beast (Jean Marais) appears and threatens him with death for plucking the rose. Imploring the Beast to let him go, he promises one of his daughters to the Beast in place of himself. The Beast agrees and Belle is sent to the castle. Though amazed at the magic she encounters, she faints in horror at the first sight of the Beast. His monstrous appearance is too much to bear but as time goes on those feelings will change. Belle’s initial terror and even disgust will be shed as she looks beyond his bestial appearance and finds the heart and soul that lie within the Beast. Thus, Cocteau seeks to examine the power of relationships and perhaps how there is hope for humanity if we can look beyond the superficial and truly find our own and each other’s humanity beyond the value of appearance.

The Beast is certainly a classic trope in the traditional fairy tale and Cocteau uses this to address the power of transformation through love and compassion. Underneath his terror-inspiring and monstrous appearance lies a gentle and kind spirit, and a cursed soul as the audience will discover. The curse of loneliness, of course, is upon him as well. Forced to live in solitude, the Beast is without even the most basic interactions of the most superficial relationship. He is too terrifying to look upon. Yet Cocteau also wants the audience to see the vulnerability of the Beast; for despite the fear and terror that he inspires, the Beast is desperate for love and acceptance. His power, both in the physical and in his enchantment of his environment both become meaningless in the face of losing his Belle, and the pain that he feels cripples him beyond measure.

Likewise, Belle is also transformed through love and compassion. Seeing beyond the Beast’s terrible appearance and fearful demeanour, she sees the very heart of his desperate desire to love and be loved. An underlying subplot is her love for her father and Belle’s willingness to sacrifice herself to save his life. In that context, Belle is also willing to stay with the Beast which means giving up the life she has known. Of course, the classic theme of inner versus outer beauty is ever-present and the journey to discovering which is the most important and lasting, is fundamental to Belle’s journey. Of course, Belle is more than a beautiful young woman on the outside, with a deep inner kindness and goodness that the Beast recognises. This reviewer would suggest that it is this characteristic of Belle that the Beast actually falls in love with, and certainly Cocteau spoke of this being the deeper meaning behind the story, stating that “I understood that ‘La Belle et la Bête’ was the story of the real love that transcends appearances.”

Furthermore, Belle’s willingness to sacrifice her own freedom for her father reflects the theme of selflessness and familial love. This act of sacrifice sets in motion the events that lead to the Beast’s redemption. Similarly, the Beast’s transformation from a cruel and selfish creature into a compassionate prince is brought about by Belle’s love and sacrifice. Indeed, love serves as a catalyst for transformation in the film. Belle’s love for the Beast is what ultimately breaks the curse and transforms him back into a human prince. Thus, Cocteau’s interpretation emphasizes the idea that love has the capacity to bring about positive change and redemption. Cocteau would state that ‘ love is born from sacrifice, and that is the basis of the human condition” and this is undoubtedly interwoven into the text of the film.

Additionally, Cocteau examines the need for forgiveness and compassion as crucial facets to the power and existence of love. This does include only forgiveness and compassion for others but the importance of being able to do for one’s self. The Beast learns to let go of his past mistakes and insecurities, embracing his true identity and capacity for love. He is able to do so because of Belle’s compassion and empathy towards him, but this is also true of his own ability to accept it himself. An acknowledgement of the heart finds the Beast finally transforming his own sense of self as well, declaring “It is the heart that sees clearly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” Whilst this of course highlights the film’s theme of the inner self being far more important than outer appearances, it also amplifies the sense of revelation that the Beast feels. For it is love that casts out the darkness, and frees the Beast from the evil spell cast on him.

Cocteau, as film historian Sylvia Bryant pointed out, took the classic fairy tale narrative form and brought into a cinematic text keeping place the codified fairy tale characterisation. Perhaps it is the incredible talents which Cocteau possessed that allowed this to be done successfully. The audience finds itself in a dream-like fantasy world, with an atmosphere which is incredibly surreal punctuated by the reality of the emotions experienced by the key characters. Film Quarterly suggested that Cocteau’s work ‘transcends the confines of the fairy tale genre, offering a profound meditation on love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of redemption’. The other-worldly atmosphere and magic of the world in which the Beast, however, cannot conceal or dampen the pain and anguish that he feels. Nor is the love that he has in his heart able to be extinguished. Indeed, it heightens that very pain. Yet both he and Belle need to traverse through this pain and emerge free from their bounds, transformed by the very emotion which also fed their anxieties. The need to be vulnerable, as both Belle and the Beast make themselves, is thus fundamental to this transformation.

There is an ethereal and ever-present magic to Cocteau’s La Belle et La Bete. He said that he wanted to make something beautiful – and he succeeded.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

An Open Apology To All Fellow Bloggers

An Open Apology To All Fellow Bloggers

by Paul Batters

To classic film fans, readers and fellow bloggers,

It has been a considerable amount of time since I’ve engaged myself in writing for this blog. I’ve made excuses to myself (the worst form of delusion) but need to be honest about my shortcomings and failings in not only the dedication needed to write this blog but more importantly the support of fellow writers on classic film. This is not an exercise in self-immolation or a self-centred and exhibitionist mea culpa but a sincere apology to those in the classic film community.

We all know the difficulties that exist in writing about classic film – it can be heart-breaking and soul-crushing experience; the amount of work and research, the passion and love for the art of film and the hours put into the final work that we present often goes un-noticed. At the very least, we hope that our fellow writers and bloggers will support our work and so whilst understanding this, I have failed in living up to this standard.

First and foremost, I hope you will accept a heartfelt apology for not meeting the commitments I made to participate in various blogathons. These events are not only a celebration of the timeless classics we all hold dear but also a testament to the strong sense of community that binds us together as lovers of classic cinema. There are way too many unfinished and unedited articles sitting in my drive that stare at me as a reminder of my failure to uphold my end of the bargain.  Indeed, it not only reflects poorly on my lack of dedication but also disrupts the collaborative spirit that drives our shared passion. The running of blogathons and the hope for involvement and support is crucial and I am sorry to those whose commitment I gave but was not followed through with.

Moreover, I must express my deep remorse for the near abandonment of this blog. The joy of researching, writing and designing a completed essay on the films we love is only equal to the enjoyment of insightful discussions, retrospectives, and shared experiences. This has sadly fallen silent in recent times. I have missed that enjoyment and the long gap between articles has tended to grow far too great. At times, bridging that gap has become harder and harder but it’s time that was rectified.

Ongoing support and encouragement are the cornerstones of our collective success in the classic film community. It’s something that I had initially prided myself on promising I would maintain. However, my own lapses in that commitment have inadvertently contributed to the erosion of that connection for me.  If I have lost your trust and belief in my reliability, I only have myself to blame and for that, I offer my sincerest apologies.

Yet I find it impossible to end writing and abandon Silver Screen Classics. Like the flicker of celluloid through a projector, there are small bursts of light on the screen that reflect a glimmer of hope. My aim is to turn around my own lack of dedication and reignite the pilot light that once burned brightly. With your understanding and forgiveness, I am hope that the Silver Screen Classics blog rebuilds and that I can regain your trust.

It’s time to breathe new life into this blog with fresh perspectives and engaging content, and to actively support and uplift my fellow writers and bloggers in their own endeavours. I am truly humbled by the opportunity to continue sharing our mutual love for classic cinema and hope that you will welcome me back into the amazing classic film community.

Winner Of The 2023 CMBA Best Classic Movie Blog Event

I am absolutely thrilled to announce that I have received the 2023 CMBA Award For Best Classic Movie Blog Event. It is the first ever such award from peers in the classic movie community and I am very humbled to receive it.

The Award was for the Classic Film On Literature Blogathon which has run for four years now and will certainly run again next year. I cannot thank enough those wonderful people who have taken part it in over the last three years and I hope that you will continue to do so – as well as see more join in as well.

The CMBA (Classic Movie Bloggers Association), of which I am very proud to be a member, does so much to support film bloggers and keep alive the presence of classic film. Their support for classic film and those who love it, is very special and I would like to thank them for their efforts in supporting those who love and write about classic film. It’s really great to be part of a worldwide community of classic film fans and connect with people from all over the world – especially since I come from Australia which sometimes feels far away from everything!

It does inspire to keep writing, reading and working on writing about classic film and I cannot thank the CMBA enough for that as well.

Here’s to classic film!

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon Is Here!

The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon Is Here!

The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon is finally here! We have some additional last minute entries and thrilled to have them aboard! Below is the current roster – a huge thank you to those who have joined in. I will continue to update this list as articles go live, so keep revisiting for those updates.

The Screen Adaptations Of Jane Eyre – Classic Film And TV Corner

The Screaming Woman (1972) and Ray Bradbury Theatre – RealWeegieMidget Reviews

Lolita (1962) – Nitrate Glow

Bride And Prejudice (2004 ) – Rebecca Deniston at Taking Up Room

Anna Karenina (1948) – Silver Screenings

The Queen of Spades (1949) – Brian Schuck at Films From Beyond The Time Barrier

Jane Eyre (1943) – Linda Sandahl at Backstory Classic

The Grapes Of Wrath (1940) – 18 Cinema Lane

The Last of the Mohicans (1920) – La Critica Retro

Pride and Prejudice (1940) – Hamlette’s Soliloquy

Howard’s End (1992) – Reel Charlie

Five Adaptations of Lovecraft’s Colour Out Of Space – Blogferatu

Dr Jekyl And Mr Hyde (1932) and (1941) – Fraser Sherman

Of Mice And Men (1939) – Silver Screen Classics

Romeo And Juliet (both 1916 versions) – Shawn Hall at The Everyday Cinephile

An American Tragedy – Shadow And Satin

Just to recap – if you feel you can sum your ‘last minute writing’ powers and knock out an article, please don’t hesitate and let me know; I’ll add you to the roster. All the details are available through the link – The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon.

Don’t forget to share the link as well as some of the images below on your own social media to help promote your article and this event as well.

ONE LAST REQUEST: As you read people’s work, PLEASE leave a comment and a like, and if possible share their work on your social media. Bloggers and writers put a great deal of research and effort, and some support is always appreciated – it can be a tough experience when so much work goes un-noticed. Your support makes a difference!

Thanks so much everyone!

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon Is On Its Way

The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon Is On Its Way

The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon is under a week away. Some fantastic articles will be coming our way and I hope you take the time to read and enjoy them. Below is the current roster – a huge thank you to those who have joined in.

The Screen Adaptations Of Jane Eyre – Classic Film And TV Corner

The Screaming Woman (1972) and Ray Bradbury Theatre – RealWeegieMidget Reviews

Lolita (1962) – Nitrate Glow

Bride And Prejudice (2004 ) – Rebecca Deniston

Anna Karenina (1948) – Silver Screenings

The Queen of Spades (1949) – Brian Schuck

Jane Eyre (1943) – Linda Sandahl

The Grapes Of Wrath (1940) – 18 Cinema Lane

The Last of the Mohicans (1920) – La Critica Retro

Pride and Prejudice (1940) – Hamlette’s Soliloquy

Howard’s End (1992) – Reel Charlie

Five Adaptations of Lovecraft’s Colour Out Of Space – Blogferatu

Dr Jekyl And Mr Hyde (1932) and (1941) – Fraser Sherman

Of Mice And Men (1939) – Silver Screen Classics

There is still opportunity to join up and share your thoughts on classic literature brought to the screen. All the details are available through the link – The 2023 Classic Literature On Film Blogathon. If I have missed your entry by some chance and it is not on the roster above, PLEASE let me know!

Don’t forget to share the link as well as some of the images below on your own social media to help promote your article and this event as well.

Thanks so much everyone!

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.

From Broadway To The Silver Screen: The Comedy Brilliance Of You Can’t Take It With You (1938)

From Broadway To The Silver Screen: The Comedy Brilliance Of You Can’t Take It With You (1938)

by Paul Batters

“The whole world’s gone crazy. Am I the only sane one left?” Mr. Anthony P. Kirby (Edward Arnold)
“No, sir. Just the most frightened.” Grandpa Martin Vanderhof (Lionel Barrymore)

From cinema’s earliest days (and particularly when film began to talk), film-makers have turned to the stage for great stories. Stage plays rely on dialogue to drive story and allow character development, whilst holding the attention and interest of the audience. It’s no wonder that during the first years of sound, the studios not only turned to actors and actresses who could speak and annunciate but they turned to writers who could write dialogue for the all-new talkies. It’s no surprise that the work and material of two legendary writers of Broadway, George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, would find its way to the silver screen. Such was the case with You Can’t Take It With You (1938), directed by Frank Capra, which would become one of 1938’s biggest hits in cinema theatres.

Director Frank Capra publicity portrait for the film ‘Mr. Smith Goes To Washington’, 1939. (Photo by Film Favorites/Getty Images)

The Pulitzer Prize winning stage play had an incredible successful run after it premiered on Broadway, with a grand total of 838 performances till it wound up in 1937. As with any play by Kaufman and Hart, the sharp, crackling and witty dialogue was delivered by a superb cast whose comedic timing wowed audiences. The critics were also impressed with the back-and-forth between the eccentric yet warm Sycamore family and the conservative and very traditional Kirbys. It’s no wonder that the play drew the attention of Hollywood, particularly director Frank Capra – it was a story that was his cup of tea. Whilst Paramount had an option on the play, it was Columbia who took the challenge on with Capra at the helm. Columbia’s powerful studio boss, Harry Cohn had his concerns, as Capra’s perfectionism and attention to detail often saw him go over budget and over time. It had not been that long ago when Columbia was one of the poor studios and in many ways was still not one of the majors. However, Capra would spare Cohn (relatively speaking) the headache of his obsessiveness and did not go too far over budget as well as wrapping up pretty much on time. Well four days over time. Like the play, the film be a huge hit; likewise wooing the critics. It would go on to win the Oscar for Best Picture and for Capra, an astonishing third Oscar for Best Director in the space of four years.

Of course, the shaping of any book, poetic work or stage play into a successful film can be challenging. Naturally, there is a fine balancing act between maintaining textual integrity and shaping a script that is workable and transferable to the screen. Capra turned to regular collaborator Robert Riskin, the incredibly skilled writer who would co-write the screenplay. Together, they got the balance just right. The script retained the core elements of the play’s wit, humour and social commentary of the original, and enhanced it with visual gags and physical comedy that worked well on screen. Actor Jack Lemmon once said that ‘you don’t change George Kaufman unless you’re pretty damn good’; in this case Riskin was and the proof was in the final product. As Capra had done previously (and would become known for), the story’s warmth and humour were paralleled with the social commentary and thematic concerns that resonated with audiences living through the Depression. The timeless ideal of the pursuit of happiness in one’s passions and the sheer joy found in life, regardless of wealth, was more than a cliché or escape from reality. The Sycamores allowed audiences to embrace the unconventional and find joy in being authentic in one’s individuality. Indeed, the Sycamores prized individuality and the expression of oneself. Given the strictures of conformity and social conventions of the time, it must have been refreshing for audiences to watch the Sycamores become the personification of challenging those norms. Riskin and Capra were able to maintain the textual integrity of Kaufman and Moss and transfer their overall interpretation onto the screen with incredible success.

Of course, none of this could work without an outstanding cast. Jimmy Stewart and Jean Arthur are superb, and their chemistry is more than evident. Capra naturally saw this, which would lead to the pair bringing that chemistry to the screen again the following year in perhaps Capra’s greatest film Mr. Smith Goes To Washington. Both Edward Arnold and Lionel Barrymore play the respective heads of the Kirby and Sycamore families; their status as two of the greatest character actors of their time needs no defence from this reviewer. All would bring a naturalness to their performances which was all the more endearing to audiences (and remains so). But the supporting cast is where the magic happens as well and they allow for the main players to work with scope and depth. Indeed, Spring Byington would be a nominee for Best Supporting Actress for her turn as Penny Sycamore. The cast’s overall comedic timing, incredible talent in hitting the mark and reacting to each other, complimented the tight and snappy dialogue. The interactions and dynamics between and within both families is a treat to watch. For Jimmy Stewart, most notably, it would mean a huge shift in his career that would hardly change bar his time in the Service during WW1. Capra saw in Stewart the epitome of American idealism and hope – the everyman who audiences connected with.

As important and affirming as the Oscar wins were, You Can’t Take It With You needs not the validation to have it sit amongst the best films of the 1930s. Yes, the cinematic experience is always going to be a departure from the realities of life and certainly audiences of then 1930s needed to escape the difficulties and harshness of the Depression. However, to describe You Can’t Take It With You as mere escapism or idealistic optimism misses the point. One could almost miss the biting criticism that Capra makes of society’s superficial drive and ambition for material gain, as well as the snobbery and ugly contempt that the rich and powerful have for the masses. During the dinner scene, Grandpa Martin (Lionel Barrymore) will challenge Mr. Kirby (Edward Arnold) for his scorn for the poor, questioning Kirby’s superiority and declaring him to be impoverished for having no friends. Later, Ramsay (H.B Warner), one of Kirby’s rivals, will call him a loser and a failure of a man. Despite the ‘happy’ ending that will result, the film’s themes are not posturing or shallow. They are one of the reasons that the film held such powerful sway over audiences of the day.

Undoubtedly, the charm of the film undoubtedly pulled audiences into the theatres as well. But the beautiful portrayal of the Sycamores as a loving family filled with joy and accepting of others, despite all their eccentricities and problems, gave hope to people sitting in the audience. It encouraged the embracing of the individual and the joy in being oneself, as well as pursuing one’s dreams (a very Capraesque ideal as well). Most importantly, the film speaks for today’s audiences as much as it did then. In a time of political and economic uncertainty, after navigating the difficulties of a pandemic as well, we should heed the film’s message – that relationships and family we have are the true wealth that we possess. At times the film feels ‘stagy’ but not so that it takes much away from the experience. Whilst not as powerful or polished as some of Capra’s most celebrated films, You Can’t Take It With You Its wonderful quality remains, across all its elements and one where the best of Broadway and the best of cinema melded into an incredible experience for audiences for all time.

Paul Batters teaches secondary school History in the Illawarra region and also lectures at the University Of Wollongong. In a previous life, he was involved in community radio and independent publications. Looking to a career in writing, Paul also has a passion for film history.