Pygmalion (1935) Review in 2025
A witty and charming comedy of manners, Pygmalion is a delightful adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's play, exploring themes of social class, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but parental discretion is advised due to some mature themes and mild innuendos.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of comedy, romance, and classic cinema. It's a timeless tale of transformation, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, with standout performances and witty dialogue.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who makes a bet with his friend Colonel Pickering that he can transform a working-class flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, into a refined lady. As Higgins works his magic, Eliza's transformation is not just physical, but also emotional, leading to a complex exploration of power dynamics, class, and the blurred lines between reality and performance.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging, witty, and full of clever dialogue, exploring themes of social class, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The plot is well-structured, with a clear narrative arc that keeps the viewer invested.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the leads. The supporting cast is also excellent, bringing depth and nuance to the story.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed, complex, and nuanced, with each one bringing their own unique personality to the story. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and their performances are top-notch.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the story and its themes. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of humor, drama, and romance.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is adequate, but not particularly memorable. The sets and costumes are well-done, but the camera work is somewhat straightforward and lacks creativity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's witty dialogue, charming performances, and exploration of complex themes make it a standout classic. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and the story is engaging and well-structured.
Cons
The cinematography is somewhat lacking, and the pacing could be tighter in some places. However, these minor quibbles do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the movie.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a lady, I'm a flower girl."
"In matters of conscience, the law is either a guide or a destroyer."
"You educated me, sir, and I'm grateful to you."
