Desk Set

Desk Set is a captivating movie directed by Walter Lang in 1957. Based on the play written by William Marchant, the film is light-hearted, creating an amalgamation of drama, romance, and comedy with a touch of technological suspense. The film stars the legendary duo of Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn, whose on-screen chemistry refuses to fade away despite having been performed half a century ago. The movie also features Gig Young alongside several other supporting actors.

Set in the context of the mid-1950s, the film offers an atmospheric journey into the era of looming technology where the fear of workforce displacement by machines reflects the contemporary concerns of automation. The backdrop is the Federal Broadcasting Network in New York, where Katharine Hepburn, playing the role of Bunny Watson, is their reference librarian. Bunny is an encyclopedia humanum, always at ease with any question thrown at her, possessing an incredible recall memory and quick wit that add to her charm.

The plot is set into motion with the arrival of a new character. Spencer Tracy, portraying the role of Richard Sumner, an efficiency expert specializing in installing a new technological marvel called the “Emmarac”, which is poised to revolutionize the current ways of the office. His introduction sends a wave of anxiety among the staff wary of job security. Computational machines were thought of as the primary threat to the workers, marking the onset of the "man vs. machine" narrative.

However, a teaser for the audience comes via Tracy’s character, which despite his profession, shows mistrust towards computers and believes in the irreplaceable nature of the human mind. The irony adds a humorous tone to the otherwise dire situation, sustaining the film's lightheartedness.

A series of friendly yet intriguing encounters and intellectual exchanges ensue between Bunny and Richard. Both get affected by each other's brilliance, resoluteness and mutual respect building a special bond. The romantic overtones are subtle, as you would expect from a 50s movie, yet they captivate your interest as they plan to unravel or ignore their feelings. Their relationship fluctuates throughout the film, with Bunny linked to Gig Young, who portrays another co-worker named Mike, making a love triangle that spices up the narrative.

This film stands out for many reasons. First, it offers a rare glimpse into women intellectual empowerment, which was far ahead of its time. Katharine Hepburn plays a strong, confident and independent woman with a vibrant personality, a brillant mind and enviable resilience, providing an example to many that would follow. Her performance is praised highly, and her moments of laughter, anxiety, and resilience leave a mark on the audience. Apart from the romance, the film showcases the fine portrayal of female friendships that lightens up the screen.

Spencer Tracy's portrayal is another highlight in the film. He plays the character with an understated ease, perfectly projecting the charm, humor, and depth in his character. With both individuals at the top of their game, the screen bursts with remarkable performances. Notably, the movie provides a kind of a screwball comedy where intelligent dialogues meet comedic undertones, creating dramatic tension while keeping the lightness intact.

While the film is fun and light-hearted, it subtly addresses a serious issue that's more relevant today than it was back in the 1950s: job security in the face of advancing technology. The very idea that computers might someday replace humans is introduced and explored in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Overall, Desk Set is an incredible comedy-drama that draws audiences in with an engaging story, relatable characters, and witty dialogues. It's a timeless piece of cinema, combining romance, drama, comedy and a technological twist that keeps you entertained while entertaining essential questions about the future of humanity in an increasingly mechanized world. The chemistry between Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn is an absolute delight to watch, making Desk Set a must-see film for anyone who enjoys classic cinema.