Too Many Husbands

The 1940 romantic comedy film, Too Many Husbands, is an amusing and entertaining comedy of errors featuring the combined talents of Jean Arthur, Fred MacMurray, and Melvyn Douglas. It presents a circular love triangle full of amusing encounters and charming performances. The plot revolves around a wife finding herself in a comic predicament as she is stuck between her legally lost husband and a new lover.

Jean Arthur stars as Vicky Lowndes, a charming and lively woman who endearingly carries the narrative on her able shoulders. She brings a warm humor and an appealing complexity to her character. Vicky is married to Bill Cardew (Fred MacMurray), who is thought to have been lost at sea during a boating accident a year back, and is presumed dead. Following this tragic event, Vicky slowly recovers with the help of her husband's business partner Henry Lowndes (Melvyn Douglas), who eventually becomes her second husband.

Just when Vicky starts embracing her new life with her second husband Henry, Bill returns unexpectedly, creating a difficult and comical situation for Vicky. Fred MacMurray as Bill Cardew presents an attractive and appealing character who is a blend of brash self-confidence and loose buoyancy. At the other end, Melvyn Douglas as Henry Lowndes gives a refined and suave performance.

The compelling story of Too Many Husbands is full of comic twists. It puts Vicky in a state of romantic confusion and presents her with a devilishly tricky dilemma as she is left torn between her two husbands. Watching Vicky’s unpredictable reactions to this tricky situation and watching how each of the husbands reacts to this competition under the same roof form the main theme of this film.

The movie offers many slapstick moments and melodramatic romantic episodes. Although it is essentially a comedy, it has its share of engaging and nuanced moments. The expressive performances by the lead trio, their lively discussions, and the delicate situations they face take this comedy of remarriage to a completely different level.

Director Wesley Ruggles masterfully fills the movie with a sense of tension and intrigue. The plot’s opportunities for misunderstanding, moral conundrums, and amorous confrontations are utilized to the fullest. Ruggles keeps the tone of the film light and laugh-filled, despite the complicated triangular whirlwind of emotions and relationships. This deft handling, paired with the brilliant screenplay by Claude Binyon, ensures that the film never falters in engaging its audience.

The film notably highlights the fashion trends of its era, featuring Jean Arthur in a series of attractive outfits that add to the visual pleasure. The three main characters are presented in sharp, stylish business attire, reflecting their socio-economic status and fashionable tastes. The film's charm is further enhanced by beautifully crafted sets and detailed interiors, worthwhile for any fan of vintage Hollywood.

The dynamics between Jean Arthur, Fred MacMurray, and Melvyn Douglas are captured wonderfully on screen. The film showcases three stunning performances, leading to a merry roller-coaster ride. The film's comedic elements are well served by the excellent timing, humor, and charisma of the lead actors. Their performances truly bring this tale of love, confusion, and remarriage to life.

In conclusion, Too Many Husbands, as the name suggests, humorously explores the predicament a woman finds herself in when suddenly faced with two husbands. Beyond the humor, it also explores deeper themes such as second chances at love, the meaning of commitment, and the challenge of moving on. Its compelling storyline coupled with fantastic performances make this film a classic must-watch for those who appreciate vintage cinema.