Synopsis
Twentieth Century follows the hilariously egotistical Broadway producer Oscar Jaffe, who desperately tries to win back his former star and lover Lily Garland on a train ride from Chicago to New York. The film is widely regarded as one of the first true screwball comedies, fueled by the electrifying chemistry between John Barrymore and Carole Lombard. Howard Hawks crafted a fast-paced, sharp-witted battle of egos that set the template for the genre.
Why Watch It
Hawks captures the barely-controlled chaos of Broadway ego clashes with screwball precision, letting John Barrymore chew scenery with theatrical abandon while Carole Lombard trades barbs with lethal timing. It's a masterclass in rapid-fire dialogue and physical comedy that feels less like a plot and more like watching two brilliant performers locked in verbal combat. The film moves with such kinetic energy that you forget it's nearly 90 years old.
Did You Know?
- Based on a 1932 Broadway play by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur.
- Carole Lombard's performance launched her screwball comedy career.
- John Barrymore reportedly ad-libbed many of his outrageous scenes.
- Filmed aboard a real Twentieth Century Limited train set replica.
- Howard Hawks directed the film in just under six weeks.
Iconic Quotes
- I close the iron door on you!
- You're the most spectacular actress in the world — I created you!
- I never make a mistake. I thought I did once, but I was wrong.
- Oscar, you're the most impossible, the most egotistical man I've ever known!
- Lily, you were born to wear fine clothes and to be adored.
