The Philadelphia Story [DVD] [2005]

This is one of my favourite films ever. Hard to believe it's 80 years old by now. It's a truly timeless classic of the romantic comedy genre. There's the rich society bride, her boring fiance, the semi-reformed ex-husband, and an uninvited reporter from a society rag with his photographer in tow. The setting is the Lords' estate somewhere in the environs of (surely not exactly *in*...?) Philadelphia, the time is the day before the wedding. And in this little film it's the bride, not the groom, who has one last fling on the night before the wedding...The cast with Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart in the lead is hard to beat. All three are among my all time favourites. Hepburn is the spoilt rich society girl. Well, divorcee in this case. Grant is the ex-husband, charming as ever, but a bit of a cad. Stewart is the decent working class bloke - hugely likable and a lot of fun in the scenes where he's drunk. I forget who plays Hepburn's stuffy husband to be, but I suspect we're meant to. The character is, after all, forgettable. And then there is the child actress who play's Hepburn's little sister... and she steals every scene she's in. She is absolutely priceless - dances to the piano in her ballet shoes, sits down and belts out "Lydia" in a raucus voice. I love her to bits.The entire film is hugely entertaining. The actors are all on top form, and that includes the supporting cast, the script is razor sharp, sets and costumes are beautiful - perfect for an hour and a half of light entertainment. Fluffy escapism a la 1940s.The DVD I own is a Region 1 disc for which a multiregion device is required. This was clearly stated at the time of purchase and did not come as a surprise. However, it is advisable to read the product description carefully to avoid disappointment if you don't own a compatible device.

"Just about everything that a blue-chip comedy should have -a witty ,romantic script, the flavour of high-society elegance and a splendid cast of performers". So said a Bosley Crowther of the New York Times and it says much about why George Cukors' film (1940) of a very popular stage play, still sparkles today and appeals to people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds (& was nominated for 6 Oscars).If you haven't seen the film but may have enjoyed 'Arsenic & old lace', 'Bringing up Baby', 'The African Queen', 'Sullivan's travels', the 50s musical remake 'High Society' or even 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' then I think you should find much to like here; a movie that has real 'star power' from its 3 big name leads but where the support cast & 'bit part' players all fit in perfectly.Although often thought of as a screwball comedy, this film really has a depth, design, & feeling, with skilful direction & an acting masterclass, so that despite being based around the privileged rich & 'well to do', is still emotionally engaging & I don't think will ever be just 'a period piece'.This review is for the 2005 2disc 'Special edition'.On disc1 is a good 'digitally remastered' version of the movie, that highlights the cinematography & has an excellent commentary by Jeannine Basinger who provides an astute,insightful & non stop treasure trove of information on Hepburn, Grant, Stewart and much more.There's also trailers for 10 of director George Cukors' other films & a list of awards .The film also has German and Spanish language versions available and has subtitles in 17 different languages.Disc2 has a fascinating 'self portrait' documentary from 1992 (70mins) where K.Hepburn now in her later years gives considerable access & talks with humour, honesty and some sadness about her life & career (with a surprising amount of detail given to her 'true love' Spencer Tracy.) There is also a good 55min documentary from 2001 on George Cukor & his many films .written & directed by the respected Richard Schickel + a 9 min short and a 7min cartoon to give you a flavour of the entertainment a cinema audience of the time would have experienced.(all the extras are also subtitled in the various languages)..to finish off there is an hour long and 30min 'radio versions' of the story ,starring the original cast .1.0 mono audio .1 hour47mins .aspect ratio '1.37(full frame)'. An excellent film and in a package to do it justice. All available at prices that should make ownership essential.

A great cast performance with the three leading stars at their shining best and their supporting players offering memorable cameos. The film is now dated in its concept and wouldn't have worked, still works now, due to it being well directed and with a interesting script especially the dialogue which is clever with brilliant one liners. It is a film that also wouldn't have worked without Cary Grant playing his role in an understated way which gives a lot of space for Hepburn and Stewart, plus also Ruth Hussey and Victoria Weilder, to give full life ton their characters. A film that you should watch to see Hollywood greats, being well directed and given a top screenplay.

Fantastic film this great stars of yesteryear Katherine Hepburn & the greats Gary Grant james Stewart wihch it & love ❤️ it like I do great viewing 4 a Sunday afenoon

Funny screwball comedy with charismatic stars.

A fabulous family film

Adapted from a successful Broadway play, this is one of the finest romantic comedies ever to come out of Hollywood; a classy cast starring Katherine Hepburn with two great leading men – Cary Grant and James Stewart – it`s still as enjoyable now as it was on release.You really must have this in your film collection.This 2-disc DVD edition has a commentary and the second disc has 2 hour-long documentaries – one on Hepburn and one on George Cukor – a Joe Doakes short, a cartoon and 2 radio dramas.English subtitles are available for the film and the extras if required.