Watch It's a Wonderful World
- NR
- 1939
- 1 hr 26 min
-
6.8 (3,368)
It's a Wonderful World is a heartwarming romantic comedy from 1939 that stars Claudette Colbert and James Stewart in lead roles. The film follows the story of Guy Johnson (Stewart), a hard-nosed detective who is wrongly accused of murdering a nightclub singer. Determined to clear his name, he sets out on a road trip with Edwina Madden (Colbert), a bubbly and vivacious poet who has been mistakenly assumed to be Johnson's accomplice in the crime.
As they travel across the country, Johnson and Madden must outrun the law, solve the crime and, along the way, discover the true meaning of life and love. The plot is lighthearted, and the film never takes itself too seriously, but there are some poignant moments and underlying themes that make it a timeless classic.
Stewart delivers a stellar performance as the gruff and grumpy detective, while Colbert shines as the dreamy-eyed poet. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, and their banter and tension throughout the film keep the audience engaged and entertained.
The supporting cast is also outstanding, particularly Guy Kibbee, who plays the eccentric millionaire, J.B. Merlin. His character provides comic relief and adds a touch of whimsy to the story. Nat Pendleton, who plays the tough-as-nails police lieutenant, is another standout, delivering some of the film's funniest lines.
The director, W.S. Van Dyke, known for his expertise in the comedy genre, brings a light touch to the film, making it an enjoyable and entertaining watch. The pacing is brisk, and the screenplay by Ben Hecht and Herman J. Mankiewicz is witty, with plenty of one-liners and memorable scenes.
The music in the film is also noteworthy, with songs such as "Wishing (Will Make It So)" and "Whistle While You Work" featured in the soundtrack. The score, composed by Franz Waxman, is playful and perfectly captures the mood of the film.
It's a Wonderful World is a feel-good movie that celebrates life, love, and the importance of human connections. While it may feel dated at times, it remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. The film's message is simple yet powerful: that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and that in the end, love and friendship conquer all.
Overall, It's a Wonderful World is a heartwarming and charming film that will make you laugh, cry and fall in love with the characters. It is a perfect example of classic Hollywood at its best, with stellar performances, a witty script, and a delightful soundtrack. It's a must-see for anyone who loves romantic comedies or classic cinema.
It's a Wonderful World is a 1939 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.