Cast
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Joel McCrea
as T.H. Randall
Nancy Kelly
as Valerie
Mary Boland
as Ethel
Cesar Romero
as Freddie
Roland Young
as Bill Carter
Mary Healy
as Doris
Lyle Talbot
as Paul Hunter
Elisha Cook Jr.
as Dicky Brown
Barnett Parker
as Huggins
Harry Hayden
as Prisoner
Charles C. Wilson
as Warden
Charles D. Brown
as Detective
Spencer Charters
as Mayer
William Edmunds
as Waiter
Leyland Hodgson
as Waiter
Crew
Director
- Roy Del Ruth
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This might have played out better had there not been a glaring inevitability to the denouement right from the start! Racehorse owner "Randall" (Joel McCrea) and ex-wife "Valerie" (Nancy Kelly) are having a dance when the cops show up and arrest him for non-payment of alimony. It's only a short term glitch, but sets the scene for a film that sees him desperate for her to marry again and get her hands out of his wallet! To that end he has the support of his lawyer "Carter" (Roland Young) and to be fair to "Valerie", she has no shortage of suitors. The more they try to fix her up, though, the more things seem to go wrong with their (not so) cunning plans. "Freddie" (Cesar Romero) and "Paul" (Lyle Talbot) seem to be the front runners as we head into the home straight and that's where predicability swoops in and well, there you have it. For much of this, Kelly reminded me of Barbara Stanwyck but if only. She rather meanders through the film adding little by way of chemistry with any of her would-be beaus while McCrea just doesn't come across as if he's enjoying one bit of this lightly comedic affair. It's a fun premiss but executed indifferently.
Jan 10, 2024
Thematic Analysis
He Married His Wife represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Roy Del Ruth brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1940, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of He Married His Wife took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 159 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 67 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1940, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While He Married His Wife shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Down with Love, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, He Married His Wife offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like You Don't Mess with the Zohan and Three for the Show explore similar territory, He Married His Wife stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 19, 1940
- Runtime: 1h 23m
