Watch Desk Set

Desk Set is a classic romantic-comedy from 1957 that stars the iconic duo of Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn, alongside Gig Young. The movie is set in the research department of the fictional Federal Broadcasting Company in New York City, where an efficiency expert named Richard Sumner (Tracy) is brought in to modernize the department's operations. Sumner brings with him a secret weapon - an electronic brain that can answer any question asked of it.

Hepburn plays the role of Bunny Watson, the head of the reference department, who is tasked with showing Sumner how things are done. Watson is a confident, independent woman who is respected by her colleagues, but she is wary of the changes that Sumner's electronic brain could bring to her department. She is also dealing with her own romantic troubles - her longtime boyfriend, Mike (Young), is a television producer who never seems to have time for her.

As Sumner and Watson work together to navigate the changes in their department, they develop a witty and charming rapport. While Sumner is initially hostile to the idea of a department that relies on real people instead of machines, he is won over by Watson's intelligence and wit. Hepburn's performance is a highlight of the movie; she delivers her lines with impeccable timing and infuses the character with a warmth and humor that makes her immediately relatable.

Throughout the film, there are several comedic set-pieces that showcase the talents of both Tracy and Hepburn. One memorable scene involves Sumner demonstrating his electronic brain to Watson's colleagues, only to have it malfunction and spout nonsensical answers. Another involves Watson taking Sumner to an office party, where she tries to teach him how to dance. There are also several moments of genuine sentimentality, such as when Watson reflects on her past relationships and contemplates her future.

As the movie progresses, it becomes clear that Sumner and Watson are developing feelings for each other. However, their romance is complicated by the fact that Sumner is engaged to another woman. The tension between the two characters builds throughout the movie, leading up to a satisfying and emotional conclusion.

One of the most interesting aspects of Desk Set is its portrayal of technology. In 1957, computers were still a relatively new invention, and the movie's portrayal of an "electronic brain" was both futuristic and slightly absurd. However, the film's message about the importance of human interaction and connection still feels relevant today. Despite the advances in technology that have been made since the movie's release, there is still a need for real people to connect with each other and solve problems in a way that machines cannot.

Overall, Desk Set is a charming and entertaining romantic-comedy that features excellent performances from Tracy and Hepburn. The movie's witty dialogue, charming characters, and clever plot make it a classic that is still enjoyable to watch today.

Desk Set is a 1957 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.