To Be or Not to Be (1942): The theatre of war

ByFabian Bullitt

1942 • Ernst Lubitsch • 1.37:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓

Directed by Ernst Lubitsch, To Be or Not to Be (1942) is a famous satirical film released during World War II, shortly after the U.S. entered the conflict. Its portrayal of the Nazis as both buffoonish and dangerous was controversial at the time.

Set in Nazi-occupied Warsaw, the film follows a troupe of Polish actors who become embroiled in espionage following the invasion of Poland. Played by Carole Lombard and Jack Benny, the central couple uses theatrical impersonation to outwit Gestapo officials. They deliver the performance of their lives in the hope of staying alive. They make acting a political weapon.

A classic example of the ‘Lubitsch Touch‘, the film is full of sophisticated innuendo, rapid tonal shifts and elliptical storytelling. The humour comes from timing and blocking rather than visual excess, and the sets play a big part in making the scenes look like theatre performances. It was Carole Lombard’s last film.

Technical Specs:

  • The Story: A troupe of Warsaw actors becomes involved in espionage after the Nazi invasion of Poland, using their theatrical skills to outwit German officers and save members of the resistance. Read my review of To Be or Not to Be.
  • Actors: Carole Lombard, Jack Benny, Robert Stack, Felix Bressart, Lionel Atwill, Sig Ruman, Stanley Ridges.
  • Director: Ernst Lubitsch
  • Year: 1942
  • Cinematographer: Rudolph Maté
  • Origin: American Cinema
  • Aspect Ratio: 1.37:1
  • Genre: Comedy & Satire
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