Comedy,Romance
United States of America
You Can't Take It with You is a romantic comedy film released in 1938 and directed by Frank Capra. The movie is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart.
Alice Sycamore (played by Jean Arthur) is a stenographer who falls in love with Tony Kirby (played by James Stewart), the son of wealthy banker Anthony P. Kirby (played by Edward Arnold). Alice's family is a bit eccentric, as her father, Martin Vanderhof (played by Lionel Barrymore), quit his job years ago to pursue his passion for pursuing happiness and his hobbies. Their household includes a variety of quirky relatives, such as Essie, Alice's ballet-dancing sister, and her husband, Ed, who makes fireworks in the basement.
When Tony's parents come to the Sycamore house for dinner, chaos ensues. Vanderhof's granddaughter, an animal enthusiast, has brought her pet snake to dinner, while Essie's ballet teacher and her ex-russian husband, Kolenkhov, perform a wild dance.
Things go from bad to worse when Kirby Sr.'s financial deal to buy up property in the Sycamores' neighborhood is threatened when Vanderhof refuses to sell his house. Matters are further complicated when a printing error causes the Sycamores' tax bill to be flawed and they are threatened with arrest.
Despite all the ups and downs, love triumphs, and Alice and Tony eventually get engaged, much to the chagrin of Tony's parents.
You Can't Take It with You is known for its charming and lively characters, witty dialogue, and heartwarming message about the importance of embracing what makes us happy in life. The film was a critical and commercial success and won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1939.
