It's a Gift

It's a Gift (1934), directed by Norman Z. McLeod, is an authentic piece of classic comedic cinema that impeccably showcases the comedic genius of W.C. Fields. Fields, a well-renowned iconic figure in American comedy, stars in this film, along with Kathleen Howard and Jean Rouverol.

In this iconic comedy, Fields portrays the role of Harold Bissonette, a middle-class New Jersey grocery owner. Bissonette, portrayed with Fields' trademark deadpan demeanor and physical comedy, is a family man, living with his sharp-tongued wife Amelia, played by Kathleen Howard, and their two children. His life can often seem exasperating due to the trials and tribulations of his grocery business and his domestic life. His character is quintessential Fields - a grumbling, disgruntled man beset with the tribulations of everyday life but facing every challenge with remarkable comic resilience.

While the film's central plot isn't complicated, it serves as the perfect platform for Fields to demonstrate his comedic prowess. As Bissonette, his primary issue is his aspiration to escape the humdrum of city life for the open simplicity of California's orange groves. After receiving an inheritance, an opportunity surfaces that could make his dreams a reality. As Bissonette navigates this new situation, viewers are treated to a parade of classic comedic scenes that continue to evoke laughter decades after the film's initial release.

The true power of It's a Gift arises from such scenarios that Fields contrives from the most trivial and mundane aspects of life – be it dealing with an obstinate child who refuses to sleep or managing a persistent insurance salesperson. Field's ability to amplify these everyday hassles into grandiose comedic scenes gives this film its unique charm.

Kathleen Howard's portrayal of Bissonette's nagging wife Amelia is nothing short of excellent. Howard's Amelia is the perfect counterpart to Field's Bissonette, her sharp tongue and commanding presence bringing a different flavor of comedy to the screen. Jean Rouverol, the young and then-upcoming actress, is delightful as the couple's teenage daughter. The highly talented supporting cast, including Tommy Bupp and Tammany Young, contribute to a well-rounded comedic ensemble that bolsters the film.

Norman Z. McLeod, known for a number of successful comedies during Hollywood's Golden Age, directs It's a Gift with a deft hand, orchestrating the comedy set pieces with skill, and allowing Fields' comedic genius to flourish. The cinematography and set design vividly bring to life the 1930s apparel and décor, enveloping the viewer in the era.

It's a Gift pays testament to Fields' career, emphasizing why he is one of the grand comics of the black-and-white era. The film makes use of Fields' experience as a juggler, including physical comedy scenes that are crafted to perfection. His tongue-in-cheek wit and knack for turning ordinary situations into extraordinary comic circumstances are prevalent throughout the film.

A particular nod must be made to the infamous "Carl LaFong" sequence and the "back porch" scene, which have become iconic in the realm of cinema humor. While the plot might seem sparse, the humor is dense, rich, and distributed so well throughout the story that it never feels like the movie is dragging.

Aside from its comedic elements, the film offers an intriguing social commentary for the 1930s, giving viewers insight into the aspirations and conversations of America's middle class during the Great Depression era. At its core, It's a Gift is about trying to achieve the American Dream while dealing with daily life filled with hassles and setbacks. This portrayal resonates with viewers who understand the universal struggle of yearning for a better life.

In conclusion, It's a Gift is a quintessential W.C. Fields film and a classic American comedy. Each scene meticulously heightens the comedy of ordinary situations, serving up a selection of laughs in classic slapstick style. Coupled with excellent performances all around and McLeod's skilled directed, It's a Gift still stands as a gem in cinematic comedy even nearly a century after its initial release.