Easton’s Classic Film series continues Wednesday evening Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. at the Easton Library, with “Twentieth Century” (1934), arguably the very first screwball comedy. John Barrymore and Carole Lombard star in a movie as fast and furious as the Twentieth Century Limited, the famous train where most of the movie’s action takes place.
The director, Howard Hawks, was a fiercely independent Hollywood icon who often co-wrote the films he produced (usually uncredited), turning out enduring, high quality movies in almost every genre. Hawks added his personal touch to gangster films, musicals, westerns, sci-fi, dramas and adventures, along with a half dozen masterful comedies, including “Twentieth Century.”
Hawks’ witty exuberance is on display in John Barrymore’s portrayal of Sam Jaffe, a Svengali-like Broadway impresario bent on coercing the Lily Garland character (played with comic perfection by Carole Lombard) to give up her successful Hollywood career and return to Broadway.
“Twentieth Century” is the ideal antidote for the winter doldrums. You’re invited to join us on the evening of Jan. 28 for a chance to view and discuss this highly entertaining classic American film.
