Tales of Manhattan
dir. Julien Duvivier · 1942
Feature
Artistic Obsession
Mood
Whimsical / Romantic
Look
vibrant, period-specific cinematography with a theatrical flair
Structure
anthology of interconnected vignettes
Plot
Ten screenwriters collaborated on this series of tales concerning the effect a tailcoat cursed by its tailor has on those who wear it. The video release features a W.C. Fields segment not included in the original theatrical release.
Why watch
A tailor's cursed tailcoat weaves its way through the lives of various New Yorkers, each story revealing the garment's whimsical yet tragic influence. Watching this film feels like wandering through a bustling city, where every encounter is laced with humor and a touch of fate, leaving you to ponder the interconnectedness of our lives.
Talking points
- the role of clothing in identity
- the impact of fate on personal stories
- the evolution of ensemble films
- the intersection of comedy and tragedy
Cultural context
post-war American optimismthe rise of ensemble storytellingthe evolution of comedic narratives in cinema