Movie Monday: You Can’t Take It with You (1938)

Today’s Movie Monday is another classic starring James Stewart with one of his best co-stars Jean Arthur. Another similarity to last week’s film is You Can’t Take It with You was directed by the talented Frank Capra!

This film is the perfect movie to watch if you are wanting to start the New Year out on a the right note! Despite there being a lot of chaos going on in each scene, You Can’t Take It with You one film that has a lot of heart. Like so many other Frank Capra movies, the overall storyline focuses on the greater good of the community.

With strong leading characters like Lionel Barrymore, James Stewart, and Jean Arthur there was no way that You Can’t Take It with You would have lost its direction. Barrymore provides an anchor for each of the younger actors as he fights to keep his home and family all as one piece. However, there are greater forces in action as we eventually see. Barrymore’s character is clever, quirky, and smart; much like many of the other characters we see in You Can’t Take It with You.

Once again, James Stewart shows why Frank Capra put so much faith in him as an actor. Stewart is able to stay true to the average man that is watching the movie, and Stewart keeps whatever character he is portraying authentic. That is why Capra and Stewart made such a legendary team.

Another memorable team in Old Hollywood is Jean Arthur and Frank Capra. We see Capra pair Stewart and Arthur together in a couple of films that he directed, however, I think You Can’t Take It with You is one of the best movies to see them actually interacting as a couple. In other Capra films starring this duo we watch them fall in love, but with You Can’t Take It with You the couple is already committed to one another and we just see them adding their quirky families together.

If you find yourself reaching for a classic film to watch this New Years Day, go for You Can’t Take It with You. This movie with warm your heart and make you smile, and there really isn’t any other way to start a brand new year if you ask me!

Much Love,

Sarah