Set in a quaint Budapest gift shop, “The Shop Around the Corner” (1940) is a delightful romantic comedy that will warm your heart and leave you smiling. It’s a story about two coworkers who can’t stand each other in person but unknowingly fall in love as anonymous pen pals.
Plot: Love Letters and Hidden Identities
Alfred Kralik (James Stewart) and Klara Novak (Margaret Sullavan) are coworkers at Matuschek and Company, a bustling gift shop in Budapest. They constantly bicker and clash, their personalities seemingly at odds. However, unbeknownst to them, they are each other’s secret pen pals, pouring their hearts out in heartfelt letters.
Alfred and Klara find solace and connection in their anonymous correspondence, sharing their dreams, aspirations, and frustrations. They eagerly await each letter, unaware that their beloved pen pal is the very person they argue with daily.
As their pen pal relationship blossoms, their real-life interactions remain fraught with tension. Alfred and Klara’s misunderstandings and miscommunications lead to humorous situations and heartfelt moments. Their anonymous connection deepens, but their real-life animosity continues to grow.
When a chance encounter at a cafe nearly reveals their secret identities, their carefully constructed worlds begin to unravel. Will they discover the truth about their pen pals and find love in the most unexpected place?
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Cast and Crew
James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan deliver captivating performances as the bickering coworkers and anonymous lovers. Stewart’s portrayal of Alfred Kralik is both charming and endearing, while Sullavan’s Klara Novak is witty, intelligent, and full of spirit. Their chemistry is undeniable, both in their heated arguments and their tender letters.
Frank Morgan shines as Mr. Matuschek, the kind-hearted but occasionally oblivious owner of the shop. Joseph Schildkraut adds a touch of villainy as Ferencz Vadas, a manipulative coworker who stirs up trouble. Felix Bressart’s portrayal of Pirovitch, a loyal and sympathetic colleague, provides heartwarming moments.
Director Ernst Lubitsch masterfully blends humor and romance, creating a film that is both witty and heartwarming. His attention to detail and clever use of visual storytelling make “The Shop Around the Corner” a cinematic gem. The film’s charming setting, delightful dialogue, and endearing characters create a truly magical experience.
Interesting Facts
The film’s charming story has been adapted and remade multiple times, including the Broadway musical “She Loves Me” and the 1998 film “You’ve Got Mail,” starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.
While not explicitly a Christmas movie, “The Shop Around the Corner” is often associated with the holiday season due to its cozy atmosphere and heartwarming themes.
Director Ernst Lubitsch was known for his sophisticated comedies and subtle humor, often referred to as the “Lubitsch Touch.” This film is a perfect example of his unique style.
