Movie Monday: The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
The month of December is here which means the marathon of holiday film reviews will begin! Today’s special holiday edition of Movie Monday is focused on The Shop Around the Corner starring Margaret Sullavan and James Stewart. Although the lines between whether this movie is a Valentine’s Day film or a Christmas movie, I am team holiday film with this one! So, here we go!
Last year was the first time I watched The Shop Around the Corner for the holiday film list, and instantly it became one of the must see movies of the season! I am not sure why, but it sure seems that James Stewart had a way of creating a timeless Christmas movie! What says “It’s the holiday season.” more than a movie centered around a shop?
James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan are the perfect duo for this movie! They have undeniable chemistry on screen while also bringing the right amount of drama. Of course, no romantic holiday film would be complete without a ton of sweet moments so be prepared for that too!
Margaret Sullavan got top billing for this film and rightly so! She more than sold me on her character, she embodied the ultimate leading lady for James Stewart in The Shop Around the Corner (no offense to Donna Reed). Seriously, watch The Shop Around the Corner and witness the magic that is Margaret Sullavan.
Besides being a fun romantic holiday movie, The Shop Around the Corner has a lot of serious moments sprinkled in among the festive scenes. There is also a very important message in the end, and it is something that everyone should keep in mind during the holidays. What this film is trying to say is do not judge a book by its cover, and it is important to be their for the people you care about. Being allusive is not the way to win someone over to your side of things, be upfront and honest.
If you haven’t seen The Shop Around the Corner or if you are looking for a new holiday film to add to your list, be sure to watch it this holiday season! It will no doubt become an instant classic!
Much Love,
Sarah
