Christmas Movie Review: Day Twelve

The Bishop's Wife 

Bishop Henry Brougham (David Niven), troubled with funding the building of a new cathedral, prays for divine guidance. His plea is seemingly answered by a suave angel named Dudley (Cary Grant), who reveals his identity only to the clergyman. Dudley begins to make the Bishop's life very complicated indeed, while the angel also helps many others in need, including the Bishop's wife, Julia (Loretta Young). Although the others are immediately entranced by the 'man', Henry just wishes he would go away!

I didn't really dislike this movie, although there things that turned me off. 
 Cary Grant is always a delight, with this sophisticated charm and dazzling grin, and I always thought Loretta Young one of the most beautiful actresses to grace the screen. 
 There were pros and cons; it did capture the spirit of Christmas perfectly, with the snowy scenes, carols and heartwarming moments. 
 Dudley's magic touch on everyone is a joy to see.  

Cary Grant did a wonderful job (as always) portraying the kind angel sent to assist the overwhelmed and misguided Bishop. I always enjoy seeing him in more serious roles, since he tended to lean toward the comedy genre in most of his movies. And this does have plenty of humor! But it was less slapstick and I liked seeing the quietly sincere side of Grant. 

And of course, the marvelous Loretta Young. Seems like she could never go wrong in her roles. That wide, charming smile, gentle voice and quiet strength is a breath of fresh air. She did the character of Julia as only she could. With grace and poise. 

 David Niven was excellent, as well, as the frustrated and baffled husband. I have to admit I felt sorry for him, since he's the only one who Dudley has informed that he's an angel, yet has a hard time believing it. 

The message of the film is beautiful, and the acting spot on. I have no complaints about either. But it did rub me wrong that Dudley seems to fall for Julia. I mean, he's an angel. Angels don't have such feelings, you know? But I feel like his constant attentions to Julia helped Henry realize that he's been neglecting his wife and family. Which, I suppose, was Dudley's intention in the first place. 

 The ending scene is lovely, too, as Henry questions why his prayer for a cathedral hasn't been answered, to which Dudley replies, "No, Henry, you were praying for guidance." 

 It's a beautiful picture, reminding all of us that God always answers our prayers, although it isn't always the way we want. 

There is a scene where a man is drinking, although because of Dudley's 'powers' he is unable to get drunk. Dudley sorta flirts with two women throughout the film, but I honestly feel like that's just Cary Grant's charm coming through. Other than that (and the fact that Dudley falls for Julia) I can't recall any other content. 

It really is a beautiful film, despite its flaws. If you have overlook the whole 'immortal jealous of mortal' bit, its superb. 
 The dialogue is beautiful, too, may I add, with wise remarks being said throughout the film, and the Christmas sermon at the end... <3 
 The entire purpose of the film is to show that material things don't matter, and we need to focus on the blessings God has given for us. So despite the few tid-bits I thought could have been left out, it was good!  

My Review: Four Stars ✩✩✩✩

Check off Day Twelve! 

                                                                                            LaKaysha