I was born in 1949. I know that makes me ancient from some reader’s perspective. I can guarantee I don’t feel “old” whatever that word is supposed to mean by today’s calculations. During this same year, 75 years ago, Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy premiered in a film that brought up the unthinkable topic of women’s equality. It was mind-blowing to even fathom and give credence to such a “modern” theory.” This was obviously long before the #MeToo Movement made its entrance. Katharine as Amanda fought a case in court against Spencer, (Adam) her husband both in real life and on camera. The two of them argued the moral dilemma of seeing the fairer sex as less than the strong male, dominant force. They discussed what repercussions gender equality would force on our society. It was brutal. It was hilarious, and too close to reality. This film wanted its audiences to think and make changes. After all, it was almost 1950. Times had to adjust. Such fools we all were and still are. Humanity evolves slowly, as ADAM’S RIB is quick to highlight. I have adored this marvelous movie for decades for its courage to begin the conversation men and women must resolve.
ADAM’S RIB did not win awards, although it boasted several nominations. This black and white film was directed by George Cukor, a very popular and decisive leader who would go on to direct the team of Hepburn/Tracy many times throughout all their careers. The film also launched Judy Holiday. She played Doris, the accused wife and mother of three children who attempted to “harm” her philandering husband. Katharine wanted her to be cast for this role, and she influenced that decision. She even went so far as to give up her own camera time to keep the focus on the talented and creative Judy Holliday. Hollywood fell in love just as predicted.
What I loved about ADAM’S RIB was the ease and timing of the dialogues. The bantering back and forth was effortless and appeared realistic. The rise and fall of each argument were like listening to a professional tennis match without the head-turning. Love was totally visible on Adam and Amanda’s face. They shared a “knowing” rhythm that only comes from being a couple. It was palpable and Kip (David Wayne) the next-door neighbor who was in love with Amanda never stood a chance. ADAM’S RIB gave America a how-to-fight-fairly lesson and later how to compromise, remember, and get back together. It was breathtaking and exhilarating, especially for the time.
ADAM’S RIB featured a theme song as well written by the brilliant Cole Porter. FAREWELL AMANDA went on to be a hit song for years and years after. Manhattan and the Connecticut countryside provided the locations. “Kissing a barn and a cow” was based on old Connecticut folklore even though it looked crazy.
ADAM‘S RIB was a comedy classic that was smart, irresistible, playful, and highly entertaining. Its high-spirited pace moved quickly and showcased a marriage in the making. Frisky and serious was a difficult combo for any rom/com. Kudos to a trailblazer for equality and how the law was interpreted 75 years ago. It is available on TCM.
