Movie Monday: Born Yesterday (1950)

Although this film is considered a drama, Born Yesterday can still be considered one of the best love stories in cinema history (and just in time for Valentine’s Day!). Judy Holiday and William Holden make quite this couple in this classic film! Today’s Movie Monday is dedicated to Born Yesterday!

The way I see it, Born Yesterday is a love story but more importantly a film about female empowerment. Judy Holiday’s character, Billie, in this movie has been told her whole life that she wasn’t smart enough or overall good enough to do any better than the abusive, mobster Harry Brock who she is living with. This mantra held Billie back from trying to fit in with the high society types that Harry was wanting her to associate with.

Enter in William Holden. Holden is hired to tutor Judy Holiday with the hope that she will be more interested in socializing. However, this all seems to backfire on Harry Brock because William Holden’s character shows Holiday that she is smarter than ever realized. Pretty soon we see Holiday’s character taking liberties with different situations and using her voice to better her own situation.

The main reason I feel that Born Yesterday is so empowering to women is because it is basically saying that you don’t have to be stuck in any situation. This film also doesn’t have William Holden being the knight in shinning armor there to rescue her. It was Judy Holiday’s decision to use her own wit to better her life and to take control of her own destiny.

Ultimately, Born Yesterday ends up also being a love story. That’s what makes it so perfect for Valentine’s Day! William Holden does a fantastic job of playing second fiddle to Judy Holliday in this film, and she knows just how to share to share the spotlight using her humor. The funny accent she Holiday had comes to mind when thinking of her comedic side.

So if you are looking for something a little bit different to watch this Valentine’s Day, or if you are just a hopeless romantic like me, give Born Yesterday a try. It is a highly underrated film and was way ahead of its time for a movie from the 1950’s.

Much Love,

Sarah