The Shop Around the Corner
Movie Details:
| Based on | Parfumerie by Miklós László |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genres | Comedy, Drama, Romance |
| Release date | January 12, 1940 (USA) |
| Running time | 1hr 39min |
| Age rating | Approved |
| Starring | Margaret Sullavan, James Stewart, Frank Morgan, Joseph Schildkraut |
| Directed by | Ernst Lubitsch |
| Screenplay by | Samson Raphaelson Ben Hecht (uncredited) |
| Produced by | Ernst Lubitsch |
| Cinematography by | William H. Daniels |
| Edited by | Gene Ruggiero |
| Music by | Werner R. Heymann |
| Art Direction by | Cedric Gibbons |
| Set Decoration by | Edwin B. Willis |
| Production Company | Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer |
| Distributor | Loew’s Inc. |
Cast & Characters:
- Margaret Sullavan as Klara Novak
- James Stewart as Alfred Kralik
- Frank Morgan as Hugo Matuschek
- Joseph Schildkraut as Ferencz Vadas
- Sara Haden as Flora Kaczek
- Felix Bressart as Pirovitch
- William Tracy as Pepi Katona
- Inez Courtney as Ilona Novotny
- Charles Halton as Detective
- Charles Smith as Rudy[N 1]
- Sarah Edwards as Customer
- Edwin Maxwell as Doctor
- Charles Arnt as Policeman (uncredited)
- Mabel Colcord as Klara’s Aunt Anna (uncredited)
- Mary Carr as Klara’s Grandmother (uncredited)
- William Edmunds as Waiter (uncredited)
- Grace Hayle as Plump Customer (uncredited)
Storyline:
Eschewing regional politics in the years leading up to World War II, the film is about two employees at a leathergoods shop in Budapest who can barely stand each other, not realizing they are falling in love as anonymous correspondents through their letters.
About The Shop Around the Corner Movie:
The Shop Around the Corner is an American romantic comedy-drama film produced and directed by Ernst Lubitsch. The screenplay, written by Samson Raphaelson, is based on the 1937 Hungarian play Parfumerie by Miklós László. The film stars Margaret Sullavan and James Stewart, along with Frank Morgan.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, The Shop Around the Corner received critical acclaim and has since been recognized as a classic. It is ranked #28 on AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Passions and is included in Time’s All-Time 100 Movies. In 1999, it was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.”
The film is praised for its witty dialogue and strong performances, particularly the chemistry between Stewart and Sullavan. Its exploration of human relationships within a small business setting resonates with audiences even decades after its release.
Conclusion
The Shop Around the Corner remains a beloved holiday classic that combines humor with heartfelt moments. Its influence can be seen in later adaptations and films that explore similar themes of love and misunderstanding, such as You’ve Got Mail. The film’s enduring appeal is a testament to its well-crafted story and strong performances by its lead actors.
Budget & Box Office Collection:
| Budget | $500,000 |
| International Collection | $36,368 |
| Worldwide Collection | $42,219 |