Favorite Festive Flicks: Shop Around The Corner (1940)

(photo courtsey of imbd.com)

This is the story of Matuscheck and Company-of Mr.Matuscheck and the people who work for him. It is just around the corner Andrassy Street.On Balta Street, in Budapest Hungary.

-The Shop Around the Corner (1940) 

Way before You Got Mail, there was  MGM's The Shop Around the Corner. It's the story of Alfred Kralik (James Stewart); a head sales clerk at Mr. Matusceck's (Frank Morgan)leather goods shop. Alfred is "at the point in his life where he wants to improve " himself and learn about the world outside of Balta street. He can't afford the new encyclopedia that he wants, but he does however stumble across an ad that reads...

"Modern girl wishes to correspond on cultural subjects anonymously with intelligent, sympathetic young man. Address "Dear Friend." Post office 15, Box 237."

The letters from this unordinary lady with "such ideals" inspire him throughout his normal daily routine. His thoughts and normal work-life,however, are soon interrupted by Klara Novak (Margaret Sullavan); a bright and fiery young lady seeking employment ( which is the last thing Alfred or Mr. Matushceck want). But, when she sells that hard-to-sell musical cigarette box, she's hired on the spot! She and Alfred are now quarreling co-workers. This doesn't discourage him however, because he still has hope for a raise and the chance to meet his mystery girl. When the opportunity for meeting his pen-pal comes, it comes as a shock because he finds out that it is Ms. Klara Novak herself!

This is a wonderful holiday love story. You will be sure to enjoy:

* The way Mr. Matuscheck's employees support their boss when he finds out that his wife has been  having an affair.

* Pepe (William Tracy-You may recognize him from Strike up the Band, 1940) and his comedic timing and wise cracks. The scenes that are given to him alone are hilarious!

Check it out this month on TCM (and Amazon.com)

Roll Film,

Neah B