The Bishop's Wife (1947)

At My Most Serious When I'm Joking

There are just some movies that have such sentimental value to me that I hesitate to write about them.  It's a Wonderful Life being my all-time favorite it the prime example, The Bishop's Wife is a close second.  However, today it dawned on me that writing once about these movies does not have to be the final exhaustive telling.  So, with that epiphany, and assuming I (hopefully) have time enough in the years to come, this is my first of probably at least a couple discussions of The Bishop's Wife.

Not sure anyone could have said it better

Communion with angels is traditional at Christmastime, which is the season when most of us mortals need angelic reassurance anyhow. So there is nothing especially surprising about the miracle that occurs in Samuel Goldwyn's "The Bishop's Wife," which opened last night at the Astor—except that it is superb...It is as cheerful and respectful an invasion of the realm of conscience that we have seen. And it comes very close to being the most enchanting picture of the year.  Bosley Crowther, The New York  Times, December 10, 1947

Influences

It's said that masterpieces of literature sometimes become part of the American lexicon.  I'm not sure if anyone else does this, but sometimes I enjoy a movie or character or maybe even just a phrase so much they become part of my life.  Such is the case with this movie for me, as some things from The Bishop's Wife have become part of the lexicon of my life.  Dudley inspired me to dress a little nicer, and to wear a scarf in the winter.  Professor Wutheridge inspired in me who I want to be when I grow old...Kind, studious, conversational and a bit silly. Also, it's the Professor who gave me a taste for Sherry. There are others but I think they're for me.  

Of course, there are probably some people who are going to say that this film encourages a futile illusion with its hope of miraculous aid. But they—if they do—will be missing its most warmly inspiring point which is—but wait a minute, that's for you to recognize and enjoy. We cannot recommend you to a more delightful and appropriate Christmas show.  Bosley Crowther, The New York  Times, December 10, 1947

Recent review

Another Pic from the Movie - Large

Insert YouTube Trailer if Available

Henry Brougham: Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking. Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry. A blazing star hung over a stable and wise men came with birthday gifts. We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries; we celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, the sound of bells and with gifts. But especially with gifts. You give me a book; I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange squeezer and Uncle Henry could do with a new pipe. We forget nobody, adult or child. All the stockings are filled... all that is, except one. And we have even forgotten to hang it up. The stocking for the child born in a manger. It's his birthday we are celebrating. Don't ever let us forget that. Let us ask ourselves what he would wish for most... and then let each put in his share. Loving kindness, warm hearts and the stretched out hand of tolerance. All the shining gifts that make peace on earth.

ADDITIONAL CAST: James Gleason, Gladys Cooper, Elsa Lanchester

RATED:  Top 10!

WATCH IT AGAIN:  Definitely!

DO I WANT TO OWN IT?:  Already do!

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