One terrific film in so many ways. Billy Wilder had a hand in writing this magnificent tale, and it shows, all about a straight as an arrow Communist (magnificently played by Greta Garbo), meeting the avant-garde Capitalistic playboy (Melvyn Douglas) of her nightmares, and who leaves one heck of an impression. Wait and see.
The ads of the day wrote, GARBO LAUGHS, and she sure did, thus marking a refreshing turnaround in her career, departing from the melodramatic to something on the lighter side, and with a message between the lines.
Unfortunately, it was one of her last films, but one of her all time best. More over, Garbo's supporting cast is impressive, notably Sig Ruman as a lively Russian emissary and post Dracula Bela Lugosi, who telegraphs an excellent performance (as the gentleman in charge), without being too ominous.
A classic that has to be viewed more than once, if not for the acting alone, later remade as a musical, SILK STOCKINGS, with Cyd Charisse as a Russian agent who also dances.
Oscar nominations, Best Actress (Garbo), Best Picture, Best Story, Best Screenplay. In 1954, Greta Garbo did receive a special Oscar for unforgettable screen performances. Director Ernest Lubitsch also earned a special Oscar in 1937 for a 25 year contribution to motion pictures. Had he not won the award, he probably would have won for Best Director here.
Always on dvd and remastered blu ray for generations to come.
The ads of the day wrote, GARBO LAUGHS, and she sure did, thus marking a refreshing turnaround in her career, departing from the melodramatic to something on the lighter side, and with a message between the lines.
Unfortunately, it was one of her last films, but one of her all time best. More over, Garbo's supporting cast is impressive, notably Sig Ruman as a lively Russian emissary and post Dracula Bela Lugosi, who telegraphs an excellent performance (as the gentleman in charge), without being too ominous.
A classic that has to be viewed more than once, if not for the acting alone, later remade as a musical, SILK STOCKINGS, with Cyd Charisse as a Russian agent who also dances.
Oscar nominations, Best Actress (Garbo), Best Picture, Best Story, Best Screenplay. In 1954, Greta Garbo did receive a special Oscar for unforgettable screen performances. Director Ernest Lubitsch also earned a special Oscar in 1937 for a 25 year contribution to motion pictures. Had he not won the award, he probably would have won for Best Director here.
Always on dvd and remastered blu ray for generations to come.