The Shop Around the Corner
One-line Summary:
In “The Shop Around the Corner,” directed by Ernst Lubitsch, two employees at a Budapest gift shop, Klara Novak and Alfred Kralik, unknowingly become pen pals and fall in love through their letters. As they struggle with their own personal and professional challenges, their relationship deepens, leading to a heartwarming and surprising conclusion.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Ernst Lubitsch
- Writer(s): Samson Raphaelson, Miklós László (play)
- Key Actors: James Stewart as Alfred Kralik, Margaret Sullavan as Klara Novak, Frank Morgan as Hugo Matuschek, Joseph Schildkraut as Ferencz Vadas, Felix Bressart as Pirovitch
- Music Director: Werner R. Heymann
- Director of Photography: William H. Daniels
- Producers: Ernst Lubitsch, Frank Morgan
Plot:
Set in 1930s Budapest, “The Shop Around the Corner” revolves around the lives of Alfred Kralik and Klara Novak, two employees at Matuschek and Company. While they initially clash at work, they are unaware that they are each other’s anonymous pen pals, who have been exchanging heartfelt letters. As their correspondence deepens, they develop an emotional bond without realizing their true identities.
Meanwhile, Mr. Matuschek, the shop’s owner, suspects his wife is having an affair and becomes increasingly paranoid. He also plans to fire one of his employees, unaware that it is Alfred. Klara, on the other hand, dreams of finding true love and believes her pen pal is the perfect match. However, when she discovers that Alfred is her pen pal, she feels betrayed and heartbroken.
Amidst these personal challenges, the shop faces financial difficulties, and tensions rise among the employees. Alfred and Klara’s relationship becomes strained, but they eventually reconcile after Alfred saves Klara from a difficult situation. In a heartwarming twist, they reunite on Christmas Eve, realizing their love for each other and the true value of their connection.
Themes and Motifs:
“The Shop Around the Corner” explores themes of love, fate, and the power of human connection. The film highlights the importance of genuine communication and the impact of misunderstandings in relationships. It also delves into the complexities of workplace dynamics and the challenges of balancing personal and professional lives.
The motif of letters plays a significant role in the film, symbolizing the characters’ desire for connection and their longing for love. The shop itself serves as a microcosm of society, reflecting the ups and downs of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release in 1940, “The Shop Around the Corner” received critical acclaim for its witty dialogue, charming performances, and heartfelt story. The film’s timeless themes and relatable characters resonated with audiences, making it a beloved classic.
Although it did not receive any major awards, “The Shop Around the Corner” has left a lasting impact on cinema. It has been praised for its influence on romantic comedies and its ability to capture the essence of human relationships. The film was later remade as “In the Good Old Summertime” in 1949 and inspired the hit Broadway musical “She Loves Me.”
Recommendation:
“The Shop Around the Corner” is a delightful and heartwarming film that showcases Ernst Lubitsch’s mastery of romantic comedies. With its charming performances, clever dialogue, and timeless themes, it is a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and those who appreciate stories about love, fate, and the power of connection.
Memorable Quote:
“Klara Novak: I don’t want to meet someone I love halfway. I want to meet someone I love all the way.”
