Thursday, October 7, 2010

Twentieth Century (1934).

Twentieth Century (1934). A screwball comedy film. Much of the film is set on the 20th Century Limited train as it travels from Chicago to New York. The film was directed by Howard Hawks. Cast: John Barrymore, Carole Lombard, Walter Connolly, Roscoe Karns and Edgar Kennedy.



Theater impressario Oscar Jaffe changes the name of his new discovery, former lingerie model Mildred Plotka, to Lily Garland, and begins rehearsals for his play. On opening night, Oscar says that a true star belongs to no man and so begins their professional partnership, and a troubled personal relationship. Lily, driven crazy by Oscar's possessiveness, wants to end their relationship. Soon She becomes a star as Oscar seems to be on his way out, until he meets Lily once again, on the Twentieth Century Limited. Oscar tries to win her over, but Lily, wants to have nothing to do with him. The dialogue in this film is witty and the acting is perfect. Carol Lombard deserves to be called the queen of comedy and John Barrymore is equally as good.

Memorable quote:

Oscar Jaffe: I never thought I should sink so low as to become an actor.

2 comments:

  1. Twentieth Century is screwball comedy at it's best. Great post Dawn. This is turning into Carole Lombard week here on Screwball Cinema...which is just fine with me.

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  2. Monty, I love Barrymore and Lombard in this. The dialogue is a riot. Barrymore is absolutely hysterical as Jaffe.

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