Watch The More the Merrier

Set during World War II, The More the Merrier is a delightful romantic comedy that follows the unconventional living situation of a young working woman in Washington D.C. named Connie Milligan (Jean Arthur). Due to the war, there is a severe housing shortage in the city and it becomes increasingly difficult for Connie to find a suitable place to live. In her desperation, she reluctantly agrees to sublet her apartment to the elderly but charming Benjamin Dingle (Charles Coburn). However, much to her surprise, Benjamin decides to sublet half of his half to a handsome and strapping young soldier named Joe Carter (Joel McCrea).

Initially, Connie is uncomfortable with sharing her apartment with a complete stranger, but she is won over by Joe's easy charm and wit. However, things take a comical turn as the three of them struggle to navigate their living arrangement, with Benjamin comically devising all sorts of schemes to ensure that Connie and Joe become romantically involved. Meanwhile, Joe finds himself struggling to balance his growing affection for Connie while trying to remain loyal to his fiancé back home.

As the days pass, the trio becomes inseparable and they begin to uncover each other's deeply buried secrets and vulnerabilities. Joe, in particular, soon reveals himself to be much more complex than he initially seemed, grappling with feelings of guilt and disillusionment as a result of his experiences in the war. Meanwhile, both Connie and Benjamin are forced to confront their own limitations and insecurities and find themselves transformed by their encounter with Joe.

The More the Merrier is truly one of the great romantic comedies of the 1940s. Its clever script is filled with witty banter, a dash of social commentary, and a healthy dose of slapstick humor. Director George Stevens expertly balances these various elements to create a film that is both playful and poignant. The film's central trio is perfectly cast and the chemistry between them is electric. Jean Arthur is at her finest here, infusing Connie with a mixture of wit, intelligence, and vulnerability. Joel McCrea is equally charming as Joe, crafting a character that is simultaneously heroic and flawed. And of course, the great Charles Coburn steals every scene he's in as the scheming but lovable Benjamin.

But more than just a story of romantic hijinks, The More the Merrier is a tribute to the resilience and endurance of the American spirit during a time of great adversity. It is a film that celebrates the strength of community, the importance of friendship, and the power of human connection. In many ways, the film's central message is more relevant today than ever before. As we continue to navigate our own difficult times, it is perhaps more important than ever to celebrate the things that unite us, rather than those that divide us.

Overall, The More the Merrier is an absolute delight from start to finish. It is a film that will make you laugh, make you cry, and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the human capacity to love, to forgive, and to come together in times of need. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood or simply a lover of great storytelling, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The More the Merrier is a 1943 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 7.6.