My Sister Eileen

My Sister Eileen is a 1942 American comedy film directed by Alexander Hall and based on a collection of short stories by Ruth McKenney published in The New Yorker. With an impressive ensemble cast featuring Rosalind Russell, Brian Aherne, and Janet Blair, the film is a delightful romp that manages to balance vibrant humor with a human touch.

The film tells the charming story of two sisters, Ruth and Eileen Sherwood, hailing from a small town in Ohio, who are seeking to make it big in the bustling city of New York. The pragmatic and witty Ruth, played by Rosalind Russell, dreams about being a successful writer while the bubbly Eileen, portrayed by Janet Blair, aspires to make her mark in the acting world. Russell can captivate viewers with her comic timing and effortlessly portrays the role of an older, protective sister. On the other hand, Blair beautifully embodies the naivete and innocence of a small-town girl out of her depth in a chaotic, cutthroat metropolis.

Upon their arrival in New York City, the sisters find themselves in a cramped, basement-level apartment in Greenwich Village, an unusual and chaotic space. They share this eccentric abode with a unique array of comedic characters: the landlord Mr. Appopolous, an unsuccessful artist portrayed by George Tobias; eccentric neighbors such as Helen Loomis, a retired actress performed by Elizabeth Risdon; and Wreck Loomis, a sprightly former football player turned 'out of work' actor played by Gordon Jones. These characters add color, drama, and light-hearted comedy to the Sherwood sisters' journey.

The narrative advances with the sisters seeking to build their respective careers while navigating a constant stream of misadventures, quirky encounters, and romantic prospects. Alongside this, a subtle subplot featuring Brian Aherne as the suave magazine editor Robert Baker brings a touch of romance to the plot. Baker becomes unwittingly embroiled in the sisters' lives, providing a host of funny, tender moments. Aherne’s classic charm and dapper looks heighten the debonair and gentlemanly character, offering viewers a reprieve from the chaos.

Russell and Blair's on-screen chemistry as sisters is strikingly genuine. The dynamic between their contrasting personalities forms the heart of the film, bringing a sense of warmth and authenticity to the story. Russell instills Ruth with a sharp wit and sensible demeanor, while Blair's portrayal of Eileen brings a certain vivacious and naive charm. The supporting cast members provide a lively backdrop, contributing to the comedy's spirit and kasbah-like vibe while also bringing out the narrative's more poignant aspects.

The recreation of 1940s Greenwich Village adds another dynamic, with its well-detailed visuals and distinct 'bohemian' atmosphere contributing significantly to the storyline and its comedic underpinnings. The costume design is equally impressive, with the sisters' outfits reflecting their personalities, from Ruth's more conservative, professional attire to Eileen's more fashionable and flamboyant dresses.

Director Alexander Hall demonstrates a knack for comic timing, ensuring a fast-paced narrative that never lags. His canny direction successfully conveys the humorous essence of Ruth McKenney's original stories while maintaining an undercurrent of sisterly love and respect throughout. The screenplay by Joseph A. Fields and Jerome Chodorov cleverly weaves in elements of satire and social commentary, highlighting the challenges faced by women entering professional fields during the era.

My Sister Eileen is a delightful, screwball comedy that offers more than mere laughs. It explores themes of ambition, resilience, and sisterhood, all served up with a generous portion of comedy and a dash of romance. Despite the film's age, these aspects keep it relevant and enjoyable for a contemporary audience. With its engaging characters, witty dialogue, and a heartwarming narrative, My Sister Eileen remains a classic film that continues to charm viewers with its timeless humor and undeniable warmth.