MY MAN GODFREY
1936 – NR – 93 Min.
D: Gregory La Cava
S: William Powell – Carole Lombard – Eugene Pallette – Gail Patrick – Alice Brady – Jean Dixon
Criterion Collection DVD
Fullscreen / Dolby Digital Mono
Extras: Commentary – Outtakes – Radio Adaptation – Production Stills – Trailer
Powell is Godfrey, a ‘forgotten man’ living in the city dump until he is virtually swallowed up by the Bullock family during a scavenger hunt. Leaving a particularly strong impression, especially on Irene (Lombard), leads our pensive yet eager hero into employment as the new butler of the Bullock household. It is demonstrated almost immediately that living and working in said household requires the patience of Job. There’s the general day to day insanity to deal with (Nobody wants to claim the horse in the library?), as well as the stress brought on by Irene’s deviously calculating sister Cornelia (Patrick) and her constant plotting against Godfrey’s continued employment. Largest of all complications, however, is that Irene has fallen for the mysterious new butler, hard. When the truth about his past comes to light, the Bullock’s, and perhaps Godfrey himself, will never be the same. Though usually referred to as screwball comedy, My Man Godfrey is much more than that. The usual trappings are all present, social observation, satire, and yes, comedy, but nearly flawless direction combined with the talents of the exceptional cast come together to create something truly special. My Man Godfrey is an insightful, hilarious, profound, rewarding entertainment that deserves every bit of recognition it has and will claim. Lots of options will present themselves to those seeking to add this one to their collections, but the Criterion release is really the only way to go. Very highly recommended.