Cast
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Jason Robards
as Grandpa Martin Vanderhof
George Rose
as Boris Kolenkhov
Elizabeth Wilson
as Penny Sycamore
Colleen Dewhurst
as Grand Duchess Olga Katrina
Maureen Anderman
as Alice Sycamore
Carole Androsky
as Essie Carmichael
Jack Dodson
as Paul Sycamore
Alice Drummond
as Gay Wellington
Wayne Elbert
as Jim
Arthur French
as Donald
Christopher Foster
as Ed Carmichael
Page Johnson
as Man from the Department of Justice
Rosetta LeNoire
as Rheba
Bill McCutcheon
as Mr. De Pinna
Meg Mundy
as Mrs. Anthony P. Kirby
Crew
Director
- Kirk Browning
- Ellis Rabb
Writer
- Moss Hart
- George S. Kaufman
Producer
- Daniel A. Bohr
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
You Can't Take it With You represents a fascinating example of Comedy 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 Kirk Browning 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 1984, 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 You Can't Take it With You took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 163 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 363 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While You Can't Take it With You shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Příběhy obyčejného šílenství, which focuses more on action than character development, You Can't Take it With You subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Flying Classroom and Shrek the Third explore similar territory, You Can't Take it With You 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: November 21, 1984
- Runtime: 1h 56m
