Watch Sitting Pretty
- NR
- 1948
- 1 hr 23 min
-
7.4 (2,734)
Sitting Pretty is a delightful comedy from 1948 that stars Robert Young, Maureen O'Hara, and Clifton Webb. The film follows Harry and Tacey King, a young couple with three young boys who are struggling to find a reliable nanny for their children. Enter Lynn Belvedere, an erudite and sophisticated gentleman who presents himself as the perfect candidate for the position.
The Kings are initially skeptical of Belvedere, but it quickly becomes apparent that he is no ordinary nanny. Belvedere is a man of many talents and interests, including writing, music, and cooking. He quickly becomes a beloved member of the household, winning over not only the boys but also their parents.
As time goes on, however, Belvedere's true motives for staying with the Kings become clear. He is actually a writer conducting research for a book, and he sees the chaotic King household as the perfect subject. Despite this revelation, the Kings continue to value Belvedere's presence and the unique perspective he brings to their lives.
Sitting Pretty is a film that succeeds largely thanks to the charm and wit of its lead actor, Clifton Webb. His portrayal of Lynn Belvedere is nothing short of masterful, managing to be both hilarious and poignant at the same time. He delivers his lines with impeccable timing and a dry wit that is impossible not to love.
But Webb is not the only standout performance in Sitting Pretty. Robert Young and Maureen O'Hara are equally strong as the harried parents who come to rely on Belvedere's help. They are both incredibly likable, and their chemistry together is a joy to watch.
The film also benefits from a sharp and clever script that balances humor and heart in equal measure. There are plenty of laughs to be had, but there are also genuine moments of emotion and insight that elevate the film beyond simple slapstick.
One of the film's most memorable scenes comes when Belvedere decides to turn the Kings' chaotic household into a model of efficiency. He runs the household like a military operation, and the results are both hilarious and oddly satisfying. It's a testament to the film's clever writing that such a seemingly mundane task can be made so entertaining.
Another standout moment comes when Belvedere decides to teach the Kings' youngest son how to read. The scene is simple but incredibly moving, a testament to the power of education and the bonds that can be formed between people.
Sitting Pretty is not without its flaws, however. The film is very much a product of its time, and some of the humor and attitudes may not sit well with modern audiences. There are occasional moments of casual sexism and racism that can be uncomfortable to watch.
Despite these issues, Sitting Pretty remains a classic comedy that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. It's a film that showcases the talents of its stars and the clever writing of its script, and it's one that is sure to put a smile on your face.
Overall, Sitting Pretty is a classic comedy that still holds up today. It's a film that manages to be both funny and heartfelt, thanks in no small part to the excellent performances of its lead actors. If you're in the mood for a charming and witty film, Sitting Pretty is definitely worth a watch.
Sitting Pretty is a 1948 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.