Twentieth Century (Full Frame)

Last Minute Sales & Specials

Often imitated but never equaled, "Twentieth Century" is a landmark in movie history: the very first screwball comedy ever produced. The prototype for free-wheeling farces ranging from "His Girl Friday" to "Something Wild," Howard Hawks' rapid-fire romantic comedy established the essential ingredients of the "screwball" a dizzy dame, a charming but befuddled hero, dazzling dialogue and a dash of slapstick. John Barrymore stars as Oscar Jaffe, an egomaniacal Broadway director who transforms a sexy salesclerk (Carole Lombard) into a temperamental superstar. When their hilarious, histrionic love affair eventually ends, her career remains red-hot while his turns stone cold. Hoping to lose his creditors and regain his stature, Barrymore buys a ticket on the "Twentieth Century," a luxury train bound for California. To his delight, Lombard is also aboard, offering him one last chance at professional and romantic success. As inspired as Robin Williams and as influential as Charlie Chaplin, Barrymore created the fast-talking, slapstick style of acting that comedians copy to this day. More than a classic, "Twentieth Century" is a mile-a-minute trip to comedy heaven.