Ernst Lubitsch’s most celebrated contribution to the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) legacy is undeniably The Merry Widow, released in 1934. This pre-Code musical comedy, brimming with sophisticated wit and enchanting romance, remains a benchmark for the genre and a testament to Lubitsch’s unparalleled directorial skill.
The Allure of The Merry Widow
Lubitsch’s The Merry Widow wasn’t merely a remake of the popular operetta by Franz Lehár; it was a reinvention. It took the melodramatic elements of the original and infused them with a layer of sophisticated, often risqué, humor that defined the “Lubitsch Touch.” The film stars Jeanette MacDonald as the wealthy and widowed Sonia, and Maurice Chevalier as Danilo, the charming but initially reluctant lieutenant tasked with wooing her back to the impoverished kingdom of Marshovia to prevent financial ruin. Their on-screen chemistry, coupled with the lavish production design and the infectious music, created a cinematic experience that captivated audiences then and continues to delight today. The film’s success cemented Lubitsch’s reputation as a master of sophisticated comedy and solidified MGM’s position as a purveyor of high-quality entertainment.
Why The Merry Widow Stands Out
Several factors contribute to the enduring appeal of The Merry Widow. First, Lubitsch’s direction is impeccable. He uses visual gags, suggestive dialogue, and carefully crafted performances to create a world of lighthearted absurdity. Second, the film boasts a stellar cast. MacDonald and Chevalier are perfectly matched, and their performances are both charming and believable. Third, the production design is breathtaking. The film is filled with opulent sets, glamorous costumes, and stunning cinematography. Finally, the music is timeless. Lehár’s melodies are catchy and memorable, and they perfectly complement the film’s romantic and comedic tone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding The Merry Widow and its place within Lubitsch’s and MGM’s filmographies:
FAQ 1: Was The Merry Widow Lubitsch’s only film for MGM?
No, The Merry Widow wasn’t Lubitsch’s only film for MGM, but it is arguably his most famous and successful for the studio. He also directed The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg (1927) for MGM, which was also a box office hit but lacks the distinct “Lubitsch Touch” that defines The Merry Widow. While he worked for other studios throughout his career, his association with MGM is most strongly linked to this particular film.
FAQ 2: What is the “Lubitsch Touch”?
The “Lubitsch Touch” refers to a distinctive directorial style characterized by its sophistication, wit, elegance, and subtle sexual innuendo. It often involves implied rather than explicit action, leaving much to the viewer’s imagination. This approach allowed Lubitsch to navigate the censorship restrictions of the Production Code, which started to be heavily enforced around 1934, while still delivering films that were both entertaining and suggestive.
FAQ 3: How faithful is the film to the original operetta?
The film takes considerable liberties with the original operetta by Franz Lehár. While it retains some of the iconic melodies and the basic premise of a wealthy widow and a charming suitor, Lubitsch significantly altered the plot and characters to create a more comedic and sexually suggestive film. The tone is considerably lighter and less overtly romantic than the stage production.
FAQ 4: What was the critical reception to The Merry Widow upon its release?
The Merry Widow was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release in 1934. Critics praised Lubitsch’s direction, the performances of MacDonald and Chevalier, the lavish production design, and the witty screenplay. The film was a box office success, further solidifying Lubitsch’s reputation as one of Hollywood’s leading directors.
FAQ 5: Did Jeanette MacDonald and Maurice Chevalier work together in other films?
Yes, Jeanette MacDonald and Maurice Chevalier were a popular screen pairing in the 1930s. They starred together in several other successful musicals, including The Love Parade (1929), Love Me Tonight (1932), and One Hour with You (1932), all directed by Lubitsch associate, Rouben Mamoulian. The Merry Widow is often considered their best collaboration.
FAQ 6: How did the Production Code affect The Merry Widow and Lubitsch’s work in general?
The Merry Widow was released just as the Production Code was starting to be strictly enforced. While the film contains suggestive elements, Lubitsch skillfully navigated the restrictions through implication and innuendo, maintaining his signature style without directly violating the Code. However, the increased censorship did influence his later work, requiring him to be even more subtle and clever in his filmmaking.
FAQ 7: What is the significance of the film being set in the fictional kingdom of Marshovia?
Setting the film in a fictional kingdom allowed Lubitsch to create a world of extravagance and absurdity without having to adhere to real-world political or social constraints. This allowed him to explore themes of wealth, power, and romance in a playful and satirical manner. Marshovia becomes a symbolic representation of a bygone era of European aristocracy.
FAQ 8: What are some of the most memorable musical numbers in The Merry Widow?
Some of the most memorable musical numbers include “The Merry Widow Waltz,” “Maxim’s,” and “Tonight Will Teach Me to Forget.” These songs are not only beautifully composed but also cleverly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the film’s emotional impact and comedic effect. They are quintessential examples of the operetta’s enduring appeal.
FAQ 9: Has The Merry Widow been remade or adapted since 1934?
Yes, there have been several remakes and adaptations of The Merry Widow over the years. However, the 1934 version directed by Lubitsch remains the most critically acclaimed and widely remembered. Later versions often struggled to capture the same level of sophistication, wit, and charm.
FAQ 10: Where can I watch The Merry Widow today?
The Merry Widow is available on various streaming platforms and can be purchased on DVD and Blu-ray. Check your preferred online retailers and streaming services for availability. Many classic film festivals and repertory theaters also screen the film regularly.
FAQ 11: What makes The Merry Widow a “classic” film?
The Merry Widow is considered a classic film due to its enduring appeal, historical significance, and artistic merit. It represents a high point in both Lubitsch’s career and the genre of musical comedy. Its innovative direction, memorable performances, lavish production design, and timeless music have cemented its place in cinematic history. Furthermore, it exemplifies the pre-Code era of Hollywood, capturing a sense of freedom and sophistication that is rarely seen in films made after the stricter enforcement of censorship.
FAQ 12: Beyond The Merry Widow, what other Ernst Lubitsch films are worth watching?
Beyond The Merry Widow, several other Ernst Lubitsch films are highly recommended. These include Ninotchka (1939), starring Greta Garbo, Trouble in Paradise (1932), a sophisticated heist comedy, Design for Living (1933), a pre-Code exploration of unconventional relationships, and To Be or Not to Be (1942), a daring and hilarious satire of Nazi Germany. Exploring these films will provide a deeper appreciation of Lubitsch’s genius and the range of his talent. These, however, were not made for MGM.