Rom-com of yesteryear Christmas, Xmas, movie, romcom, romancewww.riflerangeboy.com

[embed]Rom-com of yesteryear Christmas, Xmas, movie, romcom, romancewww.riflerangeboy.com

The Shop Around the Corner (1940)

Director: Ernst Lubitsch

https://www.rosendaletheatre.org/movies/the-shop-around-the-corner-1940/

It is interesting to observe how the concept of a romantic comedy (romcom) has evolved over the years. The idea of a rom-com in the 21st century is one where the protagonist is between relationships and finds perfect love most romantically. It could be a comedy of errors, a mix-up, or occasionally it could start with both parties not looking eye-to-eye on something, but later get closer and then decide to be a couple. Along the way, that would be casual sex, nudity, crisis and resolution. That is the sure formula for a box office blockbuster.

Refreshingly, a light romantic drama from yesteryear does not reveal too much of their intimacy. In this 1940 film, there is hardly any physical contact. Still, the spark was obviously electric between the protagonist, a young James Stewart, who is well known for his feel-good Christmas films, and the lesser-known co-star, Margaret Sullavan.

The festive atmosphere remains in the film. The setting is a gift shop in Budapest during the lead-up to Christmas. The owner and his staff share a warm and friendly rapport as they run the shop. A new staff member, Sullavan, joins the team. She does not get along with Stewart, the clerk. Unbeknownst to them, they are pen pals who enjoy each other’s company through their correspondence. Meanwhile, the shop owner learns through his private investigator that his wife is unfaithful.

Everything concludes happily in this feel-good film. It is quite a cheerful movie that finishes on a positive note. Despite being vintage, the film remains fresh and relevant as ever.