Always Together

Always Together is a 1947 American comedy film directed by Frederick de Cordova and released by Warner Bros. It is centered around the endearing and quirky drama of the Norton family, living in the heart of New York City. The film stars Robert Hutton, Joyce Reynolds, and Cecil Kellaway in the lead roles, bringing a sense of charm and charisma to the silver screen.

The film follows the life of a young couple, Bob (Robert Hutton) and Jane (Joyce Reynolds), deeply in love yet devoid of financial stability to launch their married life. As Jane waits patiently for Bob to make a decent living, their life gets a windfall twist that shoves them uphill into the realm of the super-rich. The couple spontaneously becomes recipients of a grand inheritance left by a stranger. Overwhelmed by this abrupt change in fortune, Bob and Jane tread the tricky path of their newly acquired wealth, making ends meet with their love and mutual respect.

In the midst of this compelling narrative emerges a rich pattern of supporting characters who add depth and texture to the story. Cecil Kellaway provides comic relief as a kind-hearted and affable millionaire who suddenly finds himself in the bizarre business of sharing his wealth. He dynamically interacts with Bob and Jane, using his personality traits to stir comic situations while teaching lessons of wisdom about life and wealth.

The accurate depiction of the mid-20th century, replete with its societal norms and fashion, places the audience back in time. The portrayal of New York, with its bustling life, up-and-coming technologies, skyscrapers, and vibrant social circles, brilliantly encapsulates the city's spirit. The film's contrasting images effortlessly capture the gaping socio-economic differences of the time, emphasizing the paradigm shift Bob and Jane experience.

Always Together is not just a simple comedy flick. Equally so, it is a commentary on the status of socio-economic issues and societal norms of the twentieth century. The narrative addresses the stark contrast of societal classes in a subtle manner, reflecting upon the sudden transformation that wealth can bring in a person’s life and the potential impacts of such dramatic change. It scrutinizes wealth and its influence on relationships, self-worth, and perspectives on life, indirectly pondering over whether money truly buys happiness.

Robert Hutton delivers a groundbreaking performance as Bob, the struggling young man suddenly thrown into the world of the fabulously wealthy. Bob’s quirky inconsistencies and the pressures of newfound wealth are effortlessly portrayed by Hutton’s versatile performance. Joyce Reynolds, on the other hand, shines as Jane, with her performances weaving a commendable balance between romance, drama, and comedy. As a young woman navigating through the uncertainties of life, her portrayal binds the narrative together and imparts an emotional depth to the story.

Cecil Kellaway dons the role of an aging millionaire with enticing finesse. His charming screen presence and the unforgettable comic timing steal many scenes throughout the movie. His character provides incredible depth to the narrative and rounds off the storyline with a palpable element of whimsicality.

Always Together delights with its clever writing, stellar performances, and its careful observation of post-war American lifestyle. It beautifully mixes elements of comedy and light-hearted romance, while subtly delving into societal reflections. The cinematography and the director’s unique storytelling style perfectly complement the narrative, wrapping it up into an engaging and appealing package for audiences.

Whether you want to have a throwback to the old-world charm, have a hearty laugh, or just want to relish in a time capsule of New York in the 1940s, Always Together makes for a captivating watch. It is a joy ride that oscillates between romantic comedy and feel-good drama, profoundly touching upon some significant societal themes.

In essence, Always Together remains a testament to the adage that love, more than wealth, is the core to lasting happiness. It's an engaging movie from an era gone by, but its themes, humor, and heart continue to resonate with audiences today.