Today’s quick review: My Man Godfrey. As part of a scavenger hunt, Irene Bullock (Carole Lombard), a flighty socialite, convinces Godfrey (William Powell), a sarcastic hobo, to join her at an upper-crust party. Delighted by his behavior there, she invites him to become her family’s new butler. But to keep his new job, Godfrey must put up with the family’s eccentricities, Irene’s amorous advances, and her sister Cornelia’s (Gail Patrick) antagonism.
My Man Godfrey is a classic comedy that matches an irresponsible, wealthy family with the one man capable of taming them. My Man Godfrey features clever dialogue, a strong main character, and a light, endearing plot. The movie takes pointed shots at the sheltered lives of the elite during the Great Depression, but its breezy tone and redeemable characters make it a comedy first and foremost.
My Man Godfrey has an able lead in William Powell. Godfrey has just the right blend of dry wit, selfless loyalty, and raw competence to hold the movie together, acting as its heart, sense of humor, and voice of reason all in one. The Bullocks are enjoyable characters as well, although they are exaggerated enough caricatures that the movie turns hectic whenever two of them are in the same room.
My Man Godfrey moves to shakier ground with its plot. The individual components of the plot, from Godfrey’s recruitment to Irene’s infatuation, all work well on their own. But they tend to move forward under their own power without the need for a central plot. As such, My Man Godfrey ends rather abruptly, tying up a storyline that feels only partially developed.
Give My Man Godfrey a watch if you are a fan of classic comedies. The movie’s sharp dialogue and moment-to-moment charm make it a worthwhile watch. Those looking for a tight, cohesive plot should look elsewhere, as should anyone who prefers more modern comedies. For a frenetic comedy from the same era, check out His Girl Friday.
8.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for good dialogue, amusing characters, and a loose but workable plot.