In the Good Old Summertime

The modern classic You've Got Mail has a much longer history than its 1998 release date. Audiences were first introduced to the story of the anonymous pen-pals in 1940 with The Shop Around the Corner starring James Stewart and Margaret Sullivan. This first version of the film is set in a leather goods store in Budapest, Hungary and tells the story of two people who begin writing anonymous letters to each other. Unknown to them they meet  each other in the leather store and are immediate enemies. Throughout they film they fight in person but fall in love on paper. The Shop Around the Corner is unfortunately only a fair film. I hate to speak badly of originals but honestly, I simply am not a fan of this one in particular. James Stewart is adequate in his role, Margaret Sullivan is a bit too whiny for my taste, and there is absolutely no chemistry between the two. However, The Shop Around the Corner does deserve credit for inspiring the two wonderful remakes to follow.

Nine years after The Shop Around the Corner, MGM released In the Good Old Summertime starring Van Johnson and Judy Garland. Like its predecessor, In the Good Old Summertime tells the story of two anonymous pen-pals who unwittingly meet and hate each other. This film is set in a music shoppe in turn of the century America. In contrast with almost dreary tone of The Shop Around the Corner, In the Good Old Summertime is light and bright, boasting a cast of classic character actors such as Buster Keaton and S.Z. Sakall. The addition of turn of the century style music also adds to the lovely picture of this film. All around, In the Good Old Summertime is an absolutely charming movie. The story is classic, the music perfectly suited, the acting impeccable, and the chemistry is magnificent.

Of all the old films I have seen, and believe me there are many, this is by far one of the best. There is simply nothing I do not like about it. I watch it regularly and I almost have the soundtrack memorized. In the Good Old Summertime is one of those lovely films that you will want to keep and watch over and over. This film is also a perfect start for introducing kids to old films. It is sweet and simple with fun characters and songs they will enjoy along with you.

So grab some popcorn and a bag of m&ms and relax In the Good Old Summertime.

Fondly,
J.H.