The Lady Eve (1941) Review in 2025
A charming and witty romantic comedy about a con artist who falls in love with her mark, starring Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but some scenes may be too mature for younger children.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is highly recommended for fans of romantic comedies, classic movies, and witty banter. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys clever storytelling and memorable characters.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Jean Harrington, a con artist who poses as a high-society woman to scam a wealthy man, Charles Pike, on a ship. However, she ends up falling in love with him, and the two engage in a series of witty banter and clever schemes to outsmart each other.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is clever, witty, and engaging, with a unique premise that keeps the audience entertained throughout. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of humor, romance, and drama.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda delivering standout performances. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their banter is witty and engaging.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Barbara Stanwyck delivering a standout performance as Jean Harrington. Henry Fonda is also excellent as Charles Pike, bringing a charming and witty presence to the role.
direction9.00/10
Preston Sturges' direction is masterful, bringing out the best in his actors and crafting a visually appealing film. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with a beautiful use of lighting and composition.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a beautiful use of lighting and composition. The film's use of shadows and lighting creates a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Lady Eve is a charming and witty romantic comedy with excellent performances, clever storytelling, and beautiful cinematography. The chemistry between Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda is undeniable, and their banter is witty and engaging.
Cons
The movie may be too mature for younger children, and some scenes may be too long or slow-paced for modern audiences.
Notable Quotes
"A lady's imagination is more important than her eyes."
"I'm not a lady, I'm a con artist."
"You can't fool all the people all the time, but you can fool some of them some of the time."
