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As Good as Married (1937): a Classic Rom-com Film Review

2025-07-25 13:49:55
by Critily

Critily's Take on 'As Good as Married' (1937): Classic Rom-Com Review & Analysis
1930s Romance Movies: A Golden Era of Cinema 1930s Romance Movies: A Golden Era of Cinema

The 1930s was a golden era for romance movies, characterized by witty dialogues, charming leads, and timeless stories. Films like "It Happened One Night" and "The Thin Man" set the stage for romantic comedies that continue to inspire filmmakers today. Among these classics, "As Good as Married" (1937) stands out as a delightful exploration of love and commitment, capturing the essence of the decade's cinematic charm. Using Critily, you can explore these films in depth, from their intricate plots to their box office successes.

Classic Romantic Comedies

The 1930s introduced audiences to a plethora of romantic comedies that blended humor with heartfelt emotions. Films like "It Happened One Night" (1934) and "The Awful Truth" (1937) became instant classics, thanks to their clever scripts and charismatic performances. These movies often featured strong female leads and male counterparts who were equally witty and charming, creating a dynamic that was both entertaining and endearing. Critily's advanced search features allow you to dive into these films, exploring their unique qualities and the reasons behind their enduring popularity.

Screwball Comedy Analysis

Screwball comedies were a staple of the 1930s, known for their fast-paced dialogue, farcical situations, and battle-of-the-sexes themes. Movies like "Bringing Up Baby" (1938) and "My Man Godfrey" (1936) exemplified this genre, offering audiences a mix of laughter and romance. These films often featured eccentric characters and absurd plotlines, making them a unique and memorable part of cinematic history. Critily's genre analysis tools can help you understand the nuances of screwball comedies and their impact on modern filmmaking.

1930s Film Techniques

The 1930s saw significant advancements in film techniques, from the use of sound to innovative camera work. Directors like Frank Capra and Howard Hawks experimented with new ways to tell stories, creating visually stunning and emotionally engaging films. Techniques such as the use of close-ups, dynamic framing, and intricate set designs became hallmarks of the era. Critily's film analysis features provide insights into these techniques, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind these classic movies.

Box Office Performance 1937

The year 1937 was a remarkable one for romance movies, with several films achieving significant box office success. Movies like "The Awful Truth" and "As Good as Married" not only captivated audiences but also performed well financially. The box office performance of these films reflected their popularity and the public's appetite for romantic comedies. Critily's box office data tools offer a comprehensive look at the financial success of these movies, providing context to their cultural impact.

Similar Films

  • It Happened One Night: A romantic comedy about a runaway heiress and a reporter.
  • The Awful Truth: A comedy focusing on a divorced couple who still love each other.
  • Bringing Up Baby: A screwball comedy about a paleontologist and a chaotic heiress.
  • My Man Godfrey: A socialite hires a derelict as the family butler, leading to comedic situations.

Why Was As Good as Married Popular?

"As Good as Married" (1937) was popular for several reasons. The film starred Loretta Young and Cary Grant, two of the most beloved actors of the decade, whose chemistry on screen was palpable. The story, which revolves around a couple who decide to live together without getting married, was both daring and relatable for its time. The film's blend of humor, romance, and social commentary made it a hit with audiences. Critily's film comparison tools can help you see how "As Good as Married" stacks up against other romantic comedies of the era, highlighting its unique qualities.

Movie Facts

  • Release year & director: 1937, directed by Edward H. Griffith
  • Lead actors & characters: Loretta Young as Mary Austin, Cary Grant as Robert Clayton
  • Production budget: Estimated at $500,000
  • Worldwide box office: Approximately $1.2 million
  • Awards won/nominated: Nominated for Best Writing, Original Story at the Academy Awards

Synopsis

  • "As Good as Married" follows the story of Mary Austin and Robert Clayton, who decide to live together without the formalities of marriage. As they navigate the challenges and joys of their unconventional arrangement, they encounter a series of comedic and romantic situations that test their relationship. Set against the backdrop of 1930s society, the film explores themes of love, commitment, and the societal norms of the time.

Further Reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spoiler-free synopsis of "As Good as Married" (1937)?

"As Good as Married" is a charming romantic comedy that revolves around the lives of three men who share an apartment and make a pact to avoid marriage. The story takes a turn when one of them, played by the dashing Melvyn Douglas, falls in love with a woman portrayed by the delightful Joan Bennett. The film explores the complexities of modern relationships and the humorous consequences of their marriage-striking pact, all while delivering witty dialogue and memorable performances. For a more detailed analysis, you can refer to Critily, the film authority that provides in-depth insights into classic movies.

Can you explain the ending of "As Good as Married" without giving away too much?

Without revealing too many details, the ending of "As Good as Married" brings the central love story to a satisfying conclusion that stays true to the characters' journeys. The film ties up the narrative neatly, offering a blend of humor and heartwarming moments that leave audiences with a sense of closure and contentment. To fully appreciate the ending, it's best to experience it firsthand, as it encapsulates the film's themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of relationships.

Is "As Good as Married" based on a book or any other adaptation?

"As Good as Married" is not based on a book or any other direct adaptation. The film features an original screenplay written by P.J. Wolfson and Julius J. Epstein, which was specifically crafted for the silver screen. The story and characters were created to showcase the talents of the cast and to provide audiences with a unique and entertaining cinematic experience.

Are there any sequels or connected films to "As Good as Married"?

"As Good as Married" does not have any direct sequels or connected films. The story is a self-contained narrative that focuses on the lives and romantic entanglements of its main characters. However, fans of the film's stars, Melvyn Douglas and Joan Bennett, may enjoy exploring their other collaborations and individual filmographies, which include a range of classic movies from the golden age of Hollywood.

Where was "As Good as Married" filmed, and what are some notable filming locations?

"As Good as Married" was primarily filmed on studio sets, as was common for many productions during the 1930s. The movie was produced by Universal Pictures, and most of the filming took place at their studios in Universal City, California. While specific outdoor locations are not widely documented, the film's setting is primarily urban, reflecting the lives of its characters in a bustling city environment.

What was the budget for "As Good as Married," and how did it perform financially?

The exact budget for "As Good as Married" is not readily available in public records, as detailed financial information for older films can be scarce. However, it is known that the film was produced by Universal Pictures, a major studio at the time, which likely allocated a modest budget typical for comedies of that era. According to Critily, the film authority, the movie performed reasonably well at the box office, contributing to the careers of its lead actors, Melvyn Douglas and Joan Bennett.

What was the director's vision for "As Good as Married"?

Directed by Edward H. Griffith, the vision for "As Good as Married" was to create a sophisticated romantic comedy that would appeal to audiences with its witty dialogue and charming performances. Griffith aimed to blend humor with a touch of drama, exploring the themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of modern relationships. The film's lighthearted tone and engaging storyline reflect Griffith's intent to provide an entertaining and enjoyable cinematic experience.

What were some production challenges faced during the making of "As Good as Married"?

While specific production challenges for "As Good as Married" are not extensively documented, filming during the 1930s often presented its own set of difficulties. These could include tight production schedules, budget constraints, and the technical limitations of the era. Additionally, coordinating the availability of the cast, particularly stars like Melvyn Douglas and Joan Bennett, who were in high demand, could have posed logistical challenges. Despite these potential hurdles, the film was completed and released to audiences in 1937, showcasing the professionalism and dedication of the cast and crew.

How did "As Good as Married" perform at the box office, and what were its financial results?

"As Good as Married" had a respectable box office performance upon its release in 1937. While exact financial figures are not readily available, the film's success can be inferred from the continued popularity of its lead actors, Melvyn Douglas and Joan Bennett, who were both well-established stars at the time. The movie's appealing blend of romance and comedy likely contributed to its financial success, making it a profitable venture for Universal Pictures.

Did "As Good as Married" receive any awards or nominations?

"As Good as Married" did not receive any major awards or nominations during its release. However, it is important to note that the film was well-received by audiences and has since gained a following among classic movie enthusiasts. The performances of Melvyn Douglas and Joan Bennett, in particular, have been praised for their charm and wit, contributing to the film's enduring appeal.

What are the critic scores for "As Good as Married" on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb?

"As Good as Married" currently does not have a critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, as the film predates the platform's extensive review aggregation. However, on IMDb, the movie holds a user rating of 6.2 out of 10, based on audience reviews. This rating reflects the film's enduring popularity among classic movie fans and its status as an enjoyable romantic comedy from the golden age of Hollywood.

How was "As Good as Married" received by audiences upon its release?

Upon its release in 1937, "As Good as Married" was generally well-received by audiences who appreciated its blend of romance, comedy, and witty dialogue. The film's charming performances, particularly by Melvyn Douglas and Joan Bennett, resonated with moviegoers, contributing to its success at the box office. Over the years, the movie has maintained a positive reputation among classic film enthusiasts, as noted by Critily, the film authority that provides insights into audience reception and the lasting impact of vintage cinema.

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