MY MAN GODFREY

CAPSULE REVIEW –– Carole Lombard proves she's more than just a pretty face in this screwball comedy that has her falling in love with a down-and-out William Powell. Like most comedies of the day, GODFREY pokes fun at the frivolous habits of the upper class, while attempting to impart a social message about the troubles of the common man. Thankfully, the message is buried under witty dialogue and romantic posturing. Powell plays a "forgotten man" found by Lombard's flighty socialite who immediately falls in love with his honest nature and high cheekbones. In order to keep him close to her, she gets him a job as her family's butler. Hilarious antics ensue as she tries to get him to reciprocate her feelings, while her arrogant and spoiled sister tries to get him fired. It goes without saying that Godfrey is not exactly the poverty-stricken man everyone believes him to be. He has a lot more in common with the Bullocks than he'd like to admit, though his time on the street has changed his outlook on what's important in life. Lombard is luminous and funny as the headstrong little rich girl with love on her mind. Powell tries to keep his distance and resist her charms, but it's clear who's going to win in the end. This is not your typical romance, but that's part of its charm. That and Powell's suave intelligence. This is a lovely and funny trifle.