Watch Holiday
- NR
- 1938
- 1 hr 35 min
-
7.7 (18,484)
In the 1938 romantic comedy film Holiday, Johnny Case (Cary Grant) is a self-made man who has recently become engaged to Julia Seton (Doris Nolan), a member of a wealthy family. He plans to spend his holiday with her family, but he quickly realizes that their values and lifestyles differ greatly from his own. During his time with the Seton family, Johnny becomes acquainted with her sister Linda (Katharine Hepburn) who is free-spirited and unconventional. Linda initially dismisses Johnny as another stuffy member of Julia's family, but as they spend more time together, they find they have much in common. They both long for a life that is not dictated by societal expectations and dream of financial independence.
Despite their budding feelings for each other, Linda and Johnny's romance is hindered by their different backgrounds and the expectations that society has placed on them. Julia and her controlling father are determined to break the couple up and match their daughter with someone more suitable.
Holiday is a film that explores the class divide and the limitations placed on individuals due to their social status. Johnny is a man of humble beginnings who has worked hard to achieve success. However, he is faced with the reality that his wealth does not earn him acceptance into high society, and is seen as a novelty or outsider. Linda, on the other hand, belongs to the Seton family, but is viewed as strange and unorthodox for not conforming to societal norms.
The film also delves into the idea of individuality and personal freedom. Johnny and Linda both feel trapped by their current situations and dream of living a life that is not dictated by societal expectations. Linda, in particular, is tired of being told what to do and how to live her life. She longs to have the freedom to pursue her own interests and make her own decisions. Johnny, too, is conflicted between his desire for financial independence and his love for Julia.
The chemistry between Grant and Hepburn is palpable, and their performances are some of the best of their careers. Grant's charisma and charm are on full display as he delivers his witty one-liners with ease. Hepburn, playing against type as the impulsive and carefree Linda delivers a complex and nuanced performance. The supporting cast, including Nolan and Edward Everett Horton, also deliver strong performances.
The film is directed by George Cukor, a master of the screwball comedy genre. Cukor adds his signature touch to the film with his deft handling of the actors and their comedic timing. The film's pacing is brisk and never drags, and the cinematography, particularly the scenes at the Seton's summer home, is breathtaking.
Holiday is a film that celebrates the individuality of its characters and their desire for personal freedom. It's a comedy that still holds up today, and its message is just as relevant now as it was when it was first released over 80 years ago.
Holiday is a 1938 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.