The Bishop’s Wife
Screening Dates:
Sun 22 December 2:30pm
Director: Henry Koster
Starring: Cary Grant, David Niven, Loretta Young
Bishop Henry Brougham (Niven) has become so stressed by his job that he is forgetting his faith, neglecting his family and getting his priorities all wrong.
In particular, the difficulties of fundraising for a new cathedral have worn him down so badly that he is even quarrelling with his wife Julia (Young). As Christmas approaches, Henry prays for guidance, and the answer comes immediately in the form of a dapper angel called Dudley (Grant). Dudley not only offers Henry the guidance he craves, but also enchants and delights everyone he meets – including Julia.
But what’s a bishop to do when a real live angel seems to be about to steal his wife?
This sweet romantic comedy is full of heartwarming characters and magical moments, including a wonderful ice-skating scene that’s guaranteed to put Christmas roses in your cheeks.
Critic: Caren Weiner Campbell
Date: 2012-12-04
Publication: Entertainment Weekly
Quote: Grant's turn is thoroughly convincing because he himself appears to be having a terrific time: He's expansive, graceful, and seems always on the verge of chuckling with goodwill.
Critic:
Date: 2008-12-08
Publication: TIME Magazine
Quote: It is a big, slick production. The only thing it lacks is taste.
Critic: Dave Kehr
Date: 2007-11-27
Publication: Chicago Reader
Quote: There must be some excuse for this but I can't imagine what it is.
Critic: Variety Staff
Date: 2007-11-27
Publication: Variety
Quote: While a fantasy, there are no fantastic heavenly manifestations. There's a humanness about the characters, even the angel, that beguiles full attention.
Critic: Bosley Crowther
Date: 2006-03-25
Publication: New York Times
Quote: We cannot recommend you to a more delightful and appropriate Christmas show.
Critic: Geoff Andrew
Date: 2006-02-09
Publication: Time Out
Quote: Cary's charm works as successfully upon audiences as it does upon the film's characters, and his relaxed wit plus Loretta Young's delicate loveliness makes for a frothily touching comedy.
