Preston Sturges: The Master of Screwball Comedy and Hollywood Icon

Intrepid Laughter: Preston Sturges and the Movies (Screen Classics)

by Andrew Dickos

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1744 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	179 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Preston Sturges was a brilliant American screenwriter, director, and producer who created some of the most beloved and enduring comedies in Hollywood history. His films are renowned for their witty dialogue, fast-paced plots, and endearing characters. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Preston Sturges and the movies that made him a legend.

Early Life and Career

Preston Sturges was born in Chicago, Illinois, on August 29, 1898. His father was a wealthy businessman, and Sturges grew up in a privileged environment. He attended Yale University, where he studied drama and writing. After graduating from Yale, Sturges worked as a journalist and playwright before moving to Hollywood in 1932.

Sturges' first major success in Hollywood came in 1933 when he co-wrote the screenplay for the Academy Award-winning film The Lady Eve. The film starred Barbara Stanwyck and Henry Fonda, and it was a critical and commercial success. Sturges followed up this success with a series of other critically acclaimed comedies, including Sullivan's Travels (1941),The Palm Beach Story (1942),Unfaithfully Yours (1948),and Hail the Conquering Hero (1944).

Style and Themes

Sturges' films are known for their unique style and themes. His comedies are often fast-paced and witty, with a strong emphasis on dialogue. Sturges also frequently used slapstick and physical comedy in his films. His characters are often eccentric and endearing, and they often find themselves in absurd situations.

One of the recurring themes in Sturges' films is the importance of laughter. Sturges believed that laughter was a powerful force that could bring people together and help them to overcome life's challenges. His films often feature characters who find laughter in the most unexpected places, and they ultimately find redemption through laughter.

Legacy

Preston Sturges died in New York City on August 9, 1959. He was 60 years old. Sturges left behind a legacy of some of the most beloved and enduring comedies in Hollywood history. His films continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world, and they have inspired generations of filmmakers.

Sturges was a master of screwball comedy, and his films are a testament to his genius. His ability to create witty and heartwarming comedies that still resonate with audiences today is a testament to his skill as a screenwriter, director, and producer. Preston Sturges is a true Hollywood icon, and his films will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

Selected Filmography

• The Lady Eve (1933) - Co-writer
• Sullivan's Travels (1941) - Writer, director, and producer
• The Palm Beach Story (1942) - Writer, director, and producer
• Unfaithfully Yours (1948) - Writer, director, and producer
• Hail the Conquering Hero (1944) - Writer, director, and producer
• The Great Moment (1944) - Writer, director, and producer
• Christmas in July (1940) - Writer, director, and producer
• The Miracle of Morgan's Creek (1944) - Writer, director, and producer

Intrepid Laughter: Preston Sturges and the Movies (Screen Classics)

by Andrew Dickos

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1744 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	179 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE