Ben Oliver

Now
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film

His Girl Friday

If you think you’ve got The Morning Post licked it’s time for you to get out of town.
16 June 2019

A newspaper editor tries hard to get his ex-wife back, who also happens to be one of his best reporters. While going to great lengths to stop her re-marrying, they both get roped into the case of a murderer on the run, and she is drawn back to the news desk.

Every single minute of this screenplay is packed tightly with gags and Hawks masterfully constructs ensemble scenes without ever making it look like a stage play. He also understands the power of the telephone, and the importance of getting the timing right in its use.

A fast talking (it took me a minute to catch up), sharp witted screwball comedy with an unusual circular plot that ends up where it started. Cary Grant is in high demand at this point in his career and it’s not hard to see why. He’s a gifted ad-libber and knows how to play off his co-stars to get the most laughs.

Well worth your time.