The More the Merrier

The More the Merrier is a charming, light-hearted comedy from 1943 directed by George Stevens and features performances from Jean Arthur, Joel McCrea, and Charles Coburn. Set during the World War II housing shortage in Washington, the film showcases an intricate blend of laughter, romance, war commentary and clever portrayals that yield an all-time classic.

Jean Arthur, the iconic Hollywood starlet known for her raspy voice and vibrant performances, leads the star-studded cast. Arthur masterly uses her comedic abilities to portray our plucky and no-nonsense protagonist, Connie Milligan. Milligan is an individualistic bureaucrat who, due to the critical Washington housing crises, is forced to share her apartment.

Joel McCrea impeccably plays Joe Carter, the high-spirited army aircraft technician. His character exhibits his macho charm, affable personality and his towering stance providing a sharp contrast to that of Connie. His performance as the suave army man captures the essence of the golden era of Hollywood male leads, amplifying the authenticity of this period comedy.

However, it's Charles Coburn's performance as the mischievously wily millionaire retiree, Benjamin Dingle, that steals the show. Coburn’s exemplary performance in the film won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His ability to create a sympathetic yet amusing character garners him admiration. Dingle, with a cunning understanding of the human heart, acts as an amusing cupid, interweaving a romantic subplot into the narrative.

The narrative itself is a well-woven tapestry of comedy, war-time issues and romance. The story unfurls with Dingle managing to convince the congested Connie into renting half of her apartment. Dingle later subtly sublets half of his half to Carter, creating an unexpected triangle which allows an entertaining exploration into the dynamics of complex human relationships during war-time.

The viewing pleasure of The More the Merrier is further enhanced by a tight script with fast witty dialogues and well-organized comedic monologues. The screenplay is a fine balance of sarcasm, humor, and heartfelt moments, effectively demonstrating the talent of writers, Robert Russell, Frank Ross, Richard Flournoy, and Lewis R. Foster. The spontaneity of the dialogues and the natural performances by the star-studded cast make the film engaging, allowing viewers to love and identify with the characters despite their flaws.

The direction by George Stevens also contributes to the allure of the film. Stevens, who was an expert in both drama and comedy, does a remarkable job juggling between the comedic timing and romantic setting of the film. His proficient use of custom-built sets gives us an insight into war-torn Washington, demonstrating people's resilience during this difficult period. His ability to delve into various themes simultaneously while maintaining the soft core of the film proves yet again why he remains one of cinema’s best directors.

A stand-out feature of the film is the iconic "stoop scene," where Joe and Connie find themselves squished together on the apartment stoop – an intimate setting that prompts the propulsion of their relationship. The scene offers a seamless blend of romantic tension and comedy, wherein the characters strike a chord with their conversational chemistry. This scene has been highly praised for its perfect execution and is a testament to the skilled filmmaking of Stevens.

The More the Merrier is not just a frivolous, light-hearted, romantic comedy; it is a historical commentary composition during war-time. It subtly mirrors societal issues, such as the housing shortage and the effects of war on citizens’ lives, in a poignant, non-threatening way. It portrays how the war imposes upon the personal space and privacy of individuals, bringing strangers together in ways that blur the lines of conventional societal norms.

Likewise, the movie sheds light on the importance of unity in times of distress and the strength in people coming together, further emphasizing that indeed, "the more, the merrier". Finally, it encapsulates the essence of human persistence and adaptability, reminding audiences that even in arduous times, life continues, and so does love, comedy, and the endless capacities of the human heart. The More the Merrier is a true gem from Hollywood's Golden Age that is as entertaining as it is subtly profound, making it an enduring classic.