The Man Who Came To Dinner? A Delicious Feast of Comedy and Confounding Chaos!

Ah, 1942. The year saw America embroiled in World War II, rationing became a way of life, and Bing Crosby topped the charts with “White Christmas.” But amidst the historical turbulence, Hollywood offered a much-needed escape: comedic gems that sparkled brighter than any victory medal. One such gem, often overlooked but always delightful, is “The Man Who Came to Dinner,” starring the inimitable Monty Woolley as the acerbic theatre critic Sheridan Whiteside.

This film adaptation of George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart’s hit play is a masterclass in witty dialogue and hilarious characterizations. Picture this: Whiteside, a renowned but notoriously demanding critic, suffers a theatrical mishap (a broken hip courtesy of an icy sidewalk) while visiting the small Ohio town of Mesalia.

He ends up stranded at the home of Ernest and Harriet Stanley, a well-meaning but hopelessly overwhelmed couple who find themselves at the mercy of their unexpected guest’s caustic wit and grandiose demands.

Whiteside quickly transforms the Stanleys’ modest dwelling into a chaotic circus, commandeering their phone lines, dictating endless revisions to his manuscript (“The Devil’s Advocate”), and orchestrating elaborate schemes to further his theatrical agenda.

He enlists the aid of a loyal but beleaguered secretary, Maggie Cutler (played with impeccable charm by Bette Davis), and transforms the Stanley household into a revolving door for eccentric personalities – from the glamorous actress Lorraine Sheldon (played by Ann Sheridan) to Professor Metcalfe, a bemused academic who finds himself drawn into Whiteside’s theatrical vortex.

The film thrives on its sharp script, filled with quotable lines that have become part of cinematic folklore. From Whiteside’s cutting remarks (“I haven’t met a playwright who wasn’t either a sadist or a fool!”) to Maggie Cutler’s dry retorts (“You wouldn’t know sincerity if it bit you”), the dialogue crackles with wit and intelligence.

The comedic interplay between Woolley and Davis is particularly delightful, their characters engaged in a constant battle of wills that masks a grudging respect for each other’s talents. Woolley delivers his lines with perfect comedic timing, effortlessly conveying Whiteside’s arrogance and underlying vulnerability.

Davis, on the other hand, shines as the ever-competent Maggie Cutler, balancing Whiteside’s outrageous demands with her own sharp wit and burgeoning ambitions.

Beyond the humor, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” offers a surprisingly insightful commentary on the nature of fame, ambition, and the price of success. While Whiteside revels in his notoriety, he is also portrayed as a lonely figure, yearning for recognition and validation but struggling to connect with others on a genuine level.

The film deftly navigates this complex emotional terrain, balancing its comedic elements with moments of pathos that resonate deeply with viewers.

Why Should You Watch “The Man Who Came To Dinner”?

If you’re looking for a classic comedy that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” is an undeniable gem.

Here are just a few reasons why it deserves a spot on your watchlist:

• Stellar Performances: Monty Woolley delivers a tour-de-force performance as Sheridan Whiteside, while Bette Davis brings her signature charm and wit to the role of Maggie Cutler. The supporting cast is equally strong, with memorable performances from Ann Sheridan, Richard Travis, and many others.
• Sharp Writing: The film’s screenplay is a masterclass in comedic dialogue, filled with witty banter, clever observations, and quotable lines that have stood the test of time.
• Timeless Themes: Beneath the laughter, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” explores universal themes of ambition, loneliness, and the complexities of human relationships. These themes continue to resonate with audiences today, making the film as relevant now as it was in 1942.

So, if you’re craving a good laugh and a dose of classic Hollywood charm, don’t hesitate to dive into “The Man Who Came to Dinner.” It’s a cinematic feast that will leave you wanting more!