One of my mother’s favorite holiday season movies was THE BISHOP’S WIFE. I have seen it more than a dozen times. I fondly remember us sitting together on our worn-out couch, watching movies. She could share inside tips and info about the stars as if she knew each one personally. Her knowledge enraptured me, and I enjoyed every moment of being whisked deep into an engaging story. She was a huge fan of David Niven, Loretta Young, and, of course, Cary Grant. She used to point out how kind and gentlemanly David and Cary were, just as she often spoke of Loretta’s beauty and grace. I took mental notes and stored them away for when I was older and needed to decide the type of person I wanted to be and surround myself with throughout my life. I don’t believe I have forgotten those fleeting seconds. Watching “goodness” in films shaped me… knowing angels can walk among us gave me strength and courage, and feeling the love of giving gave me hope for all humanity for the rest of my life.
THE BISHOP’S WIFE was nominated for four Oscars including Best Picture. It took the gold for Best Sound in 1947. Halfway through the filming, the original director was fired. Henry Koster was hired, and he threw out what had already been created and switched the casting. He decided that Grant should be the angel and Niven should be the emotionally lost husband. Neither of them was happy at first, but they soon learned Koster was right to make the change even though it cost the studio $800,000. Years later, Grant would say being an angel was one of his favorite roles.
The movie is based on truly seeing the best in everyone, even on our darkest days. Grant makes being an angel look and feel effortless. All he has to do is plant a huge smile on his face, and everyone can feel that positive energy and react accordingly. It is contagious and truly a domino effect. Remembering those scenes makes me smile as well. Sometimes, those we love can get off track, and it is up to all of us to do the right thing and help whenever possible. I often wish life was this easy. I think our current society could use a hefty dose of angel influence. “We all come from our own individual planets. This is what makes us different and all of us so interesting. Everything will be alright, if people will act like human. beings.” If only…
THE BISHOP’S WIFE is a sweet, heart-warming film that gifts special memories to all willing to pause their daily, busy lives and perhaps go ice skating or visit old neighbors and surround themselves with laughter and love. The movie might be 77 years old, but the message is timeless.
THE BISHOP’S WIFE is available on Prime Video.
