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- Theodora Goes Wild 1936 Colorized
Synopsis
Step into the lively world of 1930s small-town America with Theodora Goes Wild, a sparkling screwball romantic comedy from 1936, now available in a stunning colorized HD version. Directed by Richard Boleslawski, this film marks a turning point for star Irene Dunne, showcasing her comedic talents in a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Alongside Melvyn Douglas, Dunne delivers a witty and heartfelt performance in this timeless classic that blends romance, humor, and social satire.
The story centers on Theodora Lynn (Irene Dunne), a prim Sunday school teacher and organist from the conservative town of Lynnfield, Connecticut. Unknown to her prudish neighbors, Theodora is secretly the author of a risqué best-selling novel published under the pseudonym Caroline Adams. The scandalized local literary circle demands that the salacious serializations of the book be stopped, unaware that the scandalous author lives among them.
When Theodora travels to New York City under the guise of visiting her eccentric uncle, she meets Michael Grant (Melvyn Douglas), the charming and devil-may-care illustrator of her book’s jacket. Intrigued by her true identity, Michael follows her back to Lynnfield, where he schemes to liberate Theodora from her stifling small-town life. Their playful battle of wills unfolds amid a backdrop of gossip, romance, and social expectations.
As Michael disrupts Theodora’s quiet existence—posing as a gardener and coaxing her into adventurous escapades like berry-picking and fishing—their relationship deepens. However, complications arise when Michael’s political family secrets surface, leading to misunderstandings and a public showdown that forces both to confront their true desires.
Theodora Goes Wild features an exceptional cast that brings this screwball comedy to life:
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Irene Dunne as Theodora Lynn / Caroline Adams
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Melvyn Douglas as Michael Grant
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Thomas Mitchell as Jed Waterbury
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Thurston Hall as Arthur Stevenson
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Elisabeth Risdon as Aunt Mary Lynn
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Margaret McWade as Aunt Elsie Lynn
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Spring Byington as Rebecca Perry
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Nana Bryant as Ethel Stevenson
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Henry Kolker as Lieutenant Governor Grant
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Leona Maricle as Agnes Grant
Theodora Goes Wild is a quintessential screwball romantic comedy, blending sharp wit, fast-paced dialogue, and social satire. It also fits within the comedy of remarriage subgenre, exploring themes of identity, societal expectations, and liberation with a lighthearted yet insightful touch.
Released in 1936, Theodora Goes Wild emerged during the pre-Code era’s waning years, allowing it to explore risqué themes and challenge social norms with a playful edge. This film marked Irene Dunne’s first major foray into comedy after a series of dramatic roles, launching her successful career as a screen comedienne.
The film’s portrayal of a woman leading a double life and confronting small-town prudery resonated with Depression-era audiences, offering both escapism and subtle social commentary. Its clever screenplay by Sidney Buchman and Mary McCarthy, combined with Richard Boleslawski’s direction, created a timeless blend of humor and heart.
This newly colorized edition of Theodora Goes Wild revitalizes the classic black-and-white original with carefully applied hues that highlight the film’s vibrant characters and settings. The colorization process enhances the visual storytelling, from the quaint New England town to the sophisticated New York City scenes, making the film more accessible and engaging for contemporary viewers while preserving its original charm.
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: Richard Boleslawski
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: Sidney Buchman
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: Mary Eunice McCarthy
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: Joseph Walker
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: Otto Meyer
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: Columbia Pictures
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: 94 minutes
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: English
Theodora Goes Wild was both a critical and commercial success, earning Irene Dunne an Oscar nomination for Best Actress and a nomination for Best Film Editing. Critics praised Dunne’s transformation into a comedic star, with her performance regarded as one of the finest in 1930s romantic comedy.
The film remains a beloved example of screwball comedy, notable for its clever script, engaging performances, and its progressive portrayal of female independence and identity. It has inspired radio adaptations and continues to be celebrated by classic film enthusiasts.
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: What is Theodora Goes Wild about?
A: It’s about a small-town woman who secretly writes a scandalous novel and the romantic chaos that ensues when her secret is discovered. -
: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes, this is a professionally colorized HD restoration of the original 1936 film. -
: Who stars in Theodora Goes Wild?
A: Irene Dunne and Melvyn Douglas lead a stellar cast. -
: What genre does the film belong to?
A: It’s a screwball romantic comedy with elements of social satire. -
: Was the film nominated for any awards?
A: Yes, it received two Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Irene Dunne.
Enjoy the witty charm and romantic escapades of Theodora Goes Wild today in vibrant color!
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