Four's a Crowd

Four's a Crowd is a heady mix of romance, comedy, and drama. This charming, fast-paced, and somewhat complex 1938 film is directed by the iconic Hollywood director Michael Curtiz, renowned for his notable films such as Casablanca and Mildred Pierce.

The movie stars a dynamic ensemble cast of Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Rosalind Russell, and Patric Knowles, providing a vivid showcase of 1930s silver screen talent. The key plot revolves around a four-sided romantic-comedy drama, where love, deception, career, and publishing industry politics intermingle to deliver a satisfying cinematic experience.

Errol Flynn, known for his swashbuckling roles, appears in a remarkably different character as Bob Lansford, a cunning yet charming public relations expert. Employed by a newspaper tycoon named John P. Dillingwell (played by Walter Connolly), Lansford is given the task of improving Dillingwell's public image who is regarded as a tyrannical robber baron by many of his readers. The energetic and adventurous Flynn does full justice to Lansford's role, playing it with an effortless charm that draws viewers into his unfolding world.

Opposite Flynn, the stunning Olivia de Havilland delivers a delightful performance as the lovely and gentle Lorri Dillingwell, granddaughter of John Dillingwell. Allured by Lansford's charm and wit, the young heiress soon finds herself entangled in the intricate web of love and deception. De Havilland exudes her typical elegance and grace, making her character a favorite among audiences and film critics alike.

Adding another layer to this humorous quagmire is Rosalind Russell, who convincingly steps into the fashionable and conservative shoes of Jean Christy. She is a newspaper editor who works for Lansford but also loves him. However, she suspects that Lansford might be leveraging Dillingwell's situation for his advantage. Her sophisticated charm and feisty spirit turn the film into an even more compelling watch.

Rounding off the lead cast is Patric Knowles, who portrays the role of Patterson Buckley, Dillingwell's personal secretary and Lansford's former protégé. Caught in the crossfire of this quadrangular romantic-comedy, Patterson also harbors feelings for Jean Christy.

The visuals and set designs provide a wonderful backdrop, setting the mood effectively for this reveling romantic drama. The artistic detailing of the 1930s movies, combined with lavish sets, are visually appealing, giving the audience the feel of stepping back into the past. The dialogue delivery is quick, considering the movie bases much of its humor on the witty back-and-forth exchanges between characters.

The film's narrative is dizzying at times, contributing to its charm and freshness. It keeps viewers guessing, questioning who will end up with whom until the very end. While primarily a rom-com, it also provides an interesting view of the fiercely competitive newspaper industry and PR tactics of the era. The twist and turns infused throughout the plot promise a hilarious, engaging, and entertaining journey.

Curtiz's impeccable direction coupled with the fantastic performances delivered by Flynn, de Havilland, Russell, and Knowles, makes Four's a Crowd a remarkably fresh film for its era. The movie's quick, often overlapping dialogue and the complex relationships between the characters lend a certain authentic charm and whimsicality that classic film lovers would appreciate.

Crisp, light, and teeming with well-placed humor, Four's a Crowd delivers a delightful mix of romance and comedy that keeps audiences engaged throughout. It unfolds like a screwball comedy from the pre-war era with lovable characters, outstanding performances, and an intriguing, often hilarious narrative.

Michael Curtiz's Four's a Crowd stands as a delightful testament to the charisma and talent embodying Hollywood's Golden Age. It's a fun, entertaining film that is sure to appeal to audiences who appreciate classic cinema and the star power of its remarkable ensemble cast.