Director Steve Miner on The Philadelphia Story

"The prettiest sight in this fine, pretty world is the privileged class enjoying its privileges."The Next Reel’s Speakeasy is an ongoing series of ours in which we invite an industry guest to join us and bring along one of their favorite movies to talk about. In this month’s episode, director Steve Miner joins us to talk about one of his favorites, George Cukor’s 1940 film The Philadelphia Story.We talk about the nature of this story and how it’s so much more than a screwball comedy, which is how it’s often billed. We look at how Katharine Hepburn was intrinsic in getting both the original play and this film made, what it meant for her career at the time and how well it holds up today (despite one potentially nasty depiction of abuse). We discuss Hepburn, Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart and how well they work together in this story. We look at what director George Cukor brings to the table, finding the right ways to bring the script to life. We talk about the nature of the media and paparazzi and how things really haven’t changed all that much. And we look at how the film did not just in the box office and during Awards season, but more importantly how it’s really proven that it can stand the test of time.It’s a marvelous film, one that’s well worth watching. We had a great time talking about it with Steve and hearing his perspective on why it’s one of his favorites. So check out the movie then tune in!Film SundriesWatch this film: iTunes • AmazonScript TranscriptOriginal theatrical trailerOriginal poster artworkThe Philadelphia Story: A Comedy in Three Acts by Philip BarryFlickchartLetterboxd