Watch The Palm Beach Story

The Palm Beach Story is a romantic comedy film released in 1942, directed by Preston Sturges and starring Claudette Colbert, Joel McCrea, and Mary Astor. The movie follows the story of a struggling couple, Gerald and Gerry, who decide to separate so that Gerry can move to Palm Beach, Florida, and seek financial help from wealthy men to fund her husband's career aspirations. However, things don't go as planned, and both husband and wife find themselves in unpredictable situations.

The film begins with Gerry Jeffers, a beautiful and determined woman, who has grown tired of her struggling artist husband, Gerald. She decides to leave him and travel to Palm Beach, where she hopes to meet a rich man who can help support her husband's career ambitions. On the train to Palm Beach, she meets a wealthy and charming businessman named John D. Hackensacker III, who becomes smitten with her at first sight.

As Gerry spends more time with Hackensacker, she discovers that he is actually a lonely and melancholic man who has grown tired of his lavish and materialistic lifestyle. They both develop an unlikely romantic connection, but Gerry is still determined to find someone who can help her husband.

Meanwhile, Gerald, who is left back in New York, is struggling to make ends meet and is constantly being chased by his landlord for rent. He gets wrapped up in his own adventure when he meets a wealthy socialite named "The Princess" who becomes enamored with him and wants to shower him with gifts and money.

As both husband and wife navigate their respective romances, they find themselves in increasingly absurd situations that lead to misunderstandings and hilariously awkward moments. And as they both realize the true value of their love and relationship, they must decide whether to follow their hearts or stick to their original plan.

The Palm Beach Story is a delightful and charming movie that showcases the wit and comedic timing of its cast. Claudette Colbert shines as the independent and quick-witted Gerry, while Joel McCrea brings a charming and affable quality to his role as Gerald. The supporting cast members, including Mary Astor as The Princess and Rudy Vallee as Hackensacker's hapless aide, add to the film's comedic charm and energy.

The film also boasts some impressive set pieces, including a memorable scene on a speeding train, and a hilarious chase through the crowded streets of Manhattan. And throughout it all, director Preston Sturges maintains a light and breezy tone that perfectly captures the whimsy and romance of the story.

Overall, The Palm Beach Story is a classic and memorable romantic comedy that has stood the test of time. Its clever writing, talented cast, and charming humor make it a must-see for fans of the genre.

The Palm Beach Story is a 1943 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.