His Girl Friday

Definition

His Girl Friday is a classic screwball comedy film from 1940 that showcases rapid-fire dialogue and witty banter between its lead characters, highlighting the battle of the sexes and the fast-paced world of newspaper reporting. This film is notable for its clever use of overlapping dialogue, a hallmark of the screwball genre, as well as its exploration of gender roles, particularly in the context of professional ambition and personal relationships. The title refers to the protagonist, Hildy Johnson, who is not just a secretary but a fiercely independent journalist.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. His Girl Friday was directed by Howard Hawks and is based on the 1928 play The Front Page by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur.
2. The film stars Rosalind Russell as Hildy Johnson and Cary Grant as Walter Burns, showcasing their electrifying chemistry.
3. The rapid-fire exchanges between characters are not only comedic but also highlight the intelligence and quick wit of Hildy as she navigates her career and personal life.
4. His Girl Friday was one of the first films to portray a woman as both a professional journalist and an equal partner in a romantic relationship.
5. The movie's innovative use of overlapping dialogue set a standard for future films in the screwball comedy genre, influencing how dialogue is written and delivered in comedies.

Review Questions

• How does His Girl Friday exemplify the characteristics of screwball comedy through its use of dialogue and character interactions?
  • His Girl Friday exemplifies screwball comedy through its rapid-fire dialogue and witty banter between Hildy and Walter. The film's overlapping dialogue creates a lively and chaotic atmosphere that reflects the hectic nature of newspaper reporting. This style not only entertains but also develops character relationships, highlighting their intelligence and competitiveness in both their personal and professional lives.
• Discuss the significance of Hildy Johnson as a character in His Girl Friday and how she challenges traditional gender roles.
  • Hildy Johnson is significant because she represents a shift in gender roles during the early 20th century. Unlike typical female characters of her time, she is portrayed as a strong, independent journalist who excels in her career. Her dynamic relationship with Walter showcases her assertiveness and ambition, challenging societal expectations that confined women to traditional roles. This portrayal contributed to evolving views on women's capabilities in both professional and romantic contexts.
• Evaluate how His Girl Friday reflects the cultural attitudes of its time regarding marriage, work, and gender dynamics, and consider its lasting impact on modern cinema.
  • His Girl Friday reflects early 1940s cultural attitudes by presenting marriage not merely as a romantic ideal but as a partnership where both individuals are equal contributors to their careers. The film's comedic exploration of work-life balance highlights tensions between personal desires and professional ambitions. Its portrayal of strong female characters paved the way for future films to explore similar themes, making it a lasting influence on modern cinema that continues to inspire conversations about gender dynamics in both workplace settings and relationships.

Related terms

Screwball Comedy: A subgenre of comedy that emerged in the 1930s and is characterized by fast-paced dialogue, slapstick humor, and unconventional romantic pairings.

Cary Grant: A prominent actor known for his charismatic performances in romantic comedies during Hollywood's Golden Age, including his role in His Girl Friday.

Overlapping Dialogue: A technique where multiple characters speak simultaneously, creating a naturalistic flow of conversation and enhancing comedic timing.