I Live My Life

I Live My Life is a delightful and charming romance-comedy film released in the year 1935, produced by one of the biggest names in Hollywood at the time - Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios. It is directed by W.S. Van Dyke, a renowned director widely acclaimed for his work in "The Thin Man". The movie is a sparkling cocktail of love, comedy, and confusion, beautifully interwoven with sincere emotions and ebullient performances.

The movie presents the legendary Joan Crawford in the lead role, portraying the character of Kay Bentley, a vivacious and young socialite belonging to an affluent family in New York City. Crawford effortlessly brings to life the impulsive and independent Kay, a girl with the world at her feet, yet longing for something more. Her character exhibits a free-spirit and playful quirkiness that is easily relatable and adds a vivifying touch to the intricate plot of the storyline.

Concurrent to Crawford, the cast proudly boasts the charismatic Brian Aherne as Terry O'Neill, an Irish archaeologist with a calm demeanor, contrasting Kay's restlessness. Aherne effectively essays the humble and intelligent Terry, a man of science who values the sanctity of his profession and grapples with the realities of his non-materialistic world. His character appealingly balances the effervescence represented by Crawford's Kay. Their on-screen chemistry instills an exciting and enchanting dimension to the film, drawing audiences into their beautifully complex world.

Complementing these two power-packed performances is Frank Morgan, who splendidly portrays the role of Kay's father, Bentley. Morgan is amusing and lovable as the indulgent parent who tries to navigate the turbulent waters of his daughter's life, especially her love life, with an endearing mix of sternness and leniency. His character adds an extra layer of hearty humor to the narrative, striking a balance amid the romance and drama the storyline offers.

"I Live My Life" begins with Kay's voyage to Athens on a family yacht. By a stroke of luck, she encounters Terry, working on an archaeological dig. They find themselves drawn to each other amidst the enchanting Grecian backdrop. An impromptu trip ensues with both exploring the magnificence of Greece, and this forms the bedrock for the impending romantic liaison between them.

The plot thickens as Kay convinces Terry in an impromptu, whimsical moment to accompany her back to her home in New York City, without pondering over the cultural conflicts and differences in their lifestyle. As Terry steps into Kay’s world of high-profile parties, gatherings, and upper-crust norms, complications arise. The movie’s narrative vividly captures their differing backgrounds and how Terry, a simple man of humble means, grapples with the ostentatious world Kay inhabits.

The screenplay generously sprinkles humor, thanks to Aherne's witty one-liners and the funny, sometimes awkward encounters ensuring ample comic relief. Simultaneously, it retains its emotional fulcrum, ensuring that the viewers remain invested in Kay's and Terry's journey. The narrative also handles the class divide excellently, delving into Terry's trials in the upper-class Belle Époque society. His discomfort allows for several amusing moments while also eliciting sympathy from the audience.

The movie, with all its comedic twists and turns and a stimulating plotline, poses questions regarding societal expectations, love, personal freedom, and the power of choice. It cryptically explores what happens when worlds apart are drawn together by love, offering a thought-provoking perspective beneath the surface of its light-hearted façade.

As an exceptional 1935 gem, "I Live My Life" offers its viewers an eventful extravaganza filled with comedy, romance, and drama, brought alive by an ensemble of amazing actors like Joan Crawford, Brian Aherne, and Frank Morgan. Besides its captivating narrative and splendid acting, it also provides a gratifying visual experience with the scenic grandeur of Greece and the luxury of New York City's high society in the 1930s. The film is not just a romantic rendezvous but a vivacious carnival of emotions and experiences that remains an entertaining watch for classic movie enthusiasts even today.