Experience the wit and charm of Billy Wilder's Oscar-winning classic, where love and ambition collide in 1960s New York City from a brand new 35mm print.
With the magnificent Jack Lemmon and the incomparable Shirley MacLaine, Wilder explores a realistic yet hopeful love story between a lonely office worker and a charming elevator girl in 1960’s New York. Brilliant, funny and honest—Wilder at his best.
As near to perfect as possible, Wilder’s romantic comedy is more melancholy in tone than films of the genre (often quoting Brief Encounter as an inspiration) but his customary cynicism is leavened here by tender humour, romance and genuine pathos—making for a grounded comedy worthy of feature in our strand celebrating true romance.
Shot in black and white Panavision, the cinematography was seen as progressive compared to other comedies which were often shot in Academy aspect ratio. This is brilliantly showcased on print, and we’re delighted to be premiering a brand new 35mm from the BFI.
Print made by the BFI National Archive with funding from the National Lottery and the additional support of donors to the Keep Film on Film campaign.
This screening will begin with a short introduction from Elena Nepoti, Film Conservation Manager at the British Film Institute.
- DIRECTOR: Billy Wilder
- CAST: Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred MacMurray, Ray Walston, Jack Kruschen, David Lewis
- YEAR: 1960
- COUNTRY: USA
- PROJECTION FORMAT: 35mm
- DURATION: 125 mins
