Watch Born Yesterday

In the 1993 romantic comedy film Born Yesterday, Melanie Griffith plays the role of Billie Dawn, a gorgeous but slightly ditzy woman who, at the start of the movie, is dating Harry Brock (played by John Goodman), a wealthy, ruthless businessman from New York City. Brock is convinced that he can buy anything, including respectability and class, but his brash, uncultured demeanor and aggressive business tactics make him an abrasive figure in high society. When Brock heads to Washington D.C. to try to influence senators, he realizes that he needs someone to educate his girlfriend in order to make her more presentable.

Enter Paul Verrall, a self-made man and freelance journalist played by Don Johnson. Brock hires Paul to tutor Billie, but soon finds that he's not only helping her to learn to speak and dress properly, but is also opening her eyes to important issues like politics and the environment.

As Paul and Billie spend more time together, she realizes that she's more intelligent than she thought and starts to develop feelings for him. However, the relationship isn't smooth sailing, as Brock is jealous of the attention that Paul is getting from his girlfriend and tries to sabotage their budding romance. Ultimately, Billie must overcome her own doubts and the machinations of others to become the strong, empowered woman that she's capable of being.

Born Yesterday is a charming and lighthearted film that examines issues of class, education, and personal growth. The chemistry between the three leads is palpable, and Griffith in particular shines in the role of Billie, bringing a combination of vulnerability and wide-eyed wonder to the character. Goodman, too, is excellent as the boorish Harry, managing to make the character both repugnant and somewhat sympathetic at the same time.

Despite the fact that the film is over 25 years old, its themes are still relevant today, especially as they relate to the ways in which women are sometimes viewed as objects or trophies rather than as full-fledged individuals. The movie also highlights the importance of education and being informed about the world around us, even if it means being challenged and pushed out of our comfort zones.

The comedy in the film is well-balanced with the more serious moments, and the dialogue is sharp and witty throughout. Although some of the humor may be a bit dated or reliant on stereotypes, for the most part the movie feels timeless and enjoyable. Fans of romantic comedies in particular will find a lot to like here, as the love story between Billie and Paul is engaging and heartwarming without being saccharine or overly sentimental.

The film also benefits from its picturesque setting in Washington D.C., with several important monuments and landmarks featured prominently throughout. Director Luis Mandoki does an excellent job of balancing the glamorous, high society world of private clubs and fancy dinners with more down-to-earth scenes of Billie exploring the city and discovering a newfound sense of independence.

Overall, Born Yesterday is a smart, funny, and satisfying film that offers plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. While it may not be the most groundbreaking or innovative movie out there, it's definitely worth checking out for fans of romantic comedies or anyone looking for an entertaining and feel-good bit of cinema.

Born Yesterday is a 1993 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.