Top 11 Best Romantic Comedies from the 1940s in 2023 Release Date

The 1940s was a decade filled with captivating dramas and dazzling musicals, but it was the romantic comedies that truly captured the hearts of audiences. These films, with their clever dialogue and swoon-inducing moments, starred some of the most legendary actors of all time. Whether they revolved around the comedic complications of love triangles or the electric chemistry of a will-they, won’t-they relationship, the top romantic comedies of the 1940s continue to charm viewers to this day.

One film that stands out as a perennial favorite is “The Philadelphia Story,” featuring the remarkable talents of Cary Grant, James Stewart, and Katharine Hepburn. This 1940 classic not only entertained audiences but also received critical acclaim, earning Oscars for Best Actor (Stewart) and Best Writing (Donald Ogden Stewart). Another gem from the ’40s is “His Girl Friday,” which also stars the charismatic Cary Grant.

The real-life couple of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy graced the screen together in multiple romantic films of the ’40s, including “Adam’s Rib” and “Woman of the Year.” Other noteworthy entries on this list of top romantic comedies from the ’40s include “Holiday Inn,” “The Lady Eve,” and “I Married a Witch.”

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which movie deserves the number-one spot on this list. Share your thoughts and show your support for your favorite films by giving them a thumbs up. Additionally, feel free to suggest any other delightful romantic comedies from that era that you believe should be included. Let’s explore the magic of 1940s cinema together!

1. The Shop Around the Corner

Alfred Kralik (played by James Stewart) and Klara Novak (played by Margaret Sullavan) work together at Matuschek and Company, a general store in Budapest. Let’s just say they don’t exactly see eye to eye. These two are always at odds, constantly butting heads and disagreeing on pretty much everything. They’re like oil and water.

But here’s the thing: both Alfred and Klara have pen pals who they are head over heels for. These pen pals are like a breath of fresh air in their otherwise challenging lives. What they don’t know is that they are actually each other’s pen pals. Surprise! Despite their outward differences and constant bickering, they have unknowingly fallen in love with each other through their heartfelt letters.

Released: 1940
Directed by: Ernst Lubitsch
Actors: Margaret Sullavan, James Stewart, Frank Morgan

2. The Lady Eve

It’s not just a coincidence that Charles, a wealthy individual portrayed by Henry Fonda, finds himself drawn to Jean, played by Barbara Stanwyck. You see, Jean happens to be a con artist with a cunning plan to seize Charles’ fortune. But things take an unexpected turn when Jean starts falling for her intended victim. The situation becomes even more complicated when Charles begins to suspect Jean’s ulterior motives and decides to end their relationship.

However, Jean is not one to let go easily. Consumed by her thirst for revenge and still longing for Charles, she concocts a clever scheme to worm her way back into his life. This time, she reinvents herself as an aristocratic lady named Lady Eve Sidwich. With her heart set on both love and payback, Jean reintroduces herself to Charles, hoping to captivate him once again.

In this delightful tale of deceit and desire, Jean’s determination to achieve her goals knows no bounds. Will her cunning plan succeed, or will Charles see through her charade? Only time will tell as the story unfolds.

Released: 1941
Directed by: Preston Sturges
Actors: Barbara Stanwyck, Henry Fonda, Charles Coburn

3. The Philadelphia Story

This classic romantic comedy centers around Tracy Lord, a Philadelphia socialite. She recently separated from her husband, C.K. Dexter Haven, because of his drinking and her demanding nature. Tracy is now getting ready to marry the wealthy George Kittredge. However, her path crosses with her ex-husband Dexter and a nosy reporter named Macaulay Connor. Tracy finds herself unsure about her feelings for all three men, and she must ultimately choose who she truly loves.

Released: 1940
Directed by: George Cukor
Actors: Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, James Stewart

4. His Girl Friday

Hard-charging New York newspaper editor Walter Burns finds out that his ex-wife, investigative reporter Hildy Johnson, is engaged to mild-mannered insurance agent Bruce Baldwin. Walter’s attempts to convince Hildy to leave her calm domestic life fail when he pitches a story about the upcoming execution of convicted murderer Earl Williams. However, Hildy’s reporter instincts kick in when she uncovers the possibility of Williams’ innocence.

Released: 1940
Directed by: Howard Hawks
Actors: Cary Grant, Rosalind Russell, Ralph Bellamy

5. Adam’s Rib

In this hilarious and spirited comedy, a courtroom rivalry spills over into the Bonner household. Adam Bonner, a prosecuting lawyer played by Spencer Tracy, finds himself facing off against none other than his own wife, Amanda, portrayed by the legendary Katharine Hepburn. Amanda happens to be a defense attorney, and together, they are working on opposite sides of a fascinating lawsuit.

The case involves a woman, brilliantly portrayed by Judy Holliday, who shot her cheating husband, played by Tom Ewell. Both Adam and Amanda are fiercely determined to win the case, and this determination sets the stage for a series of uproarious showdowns within the confines of their home.

The Bonner household becomes the battleground for these comical confrontations, with neither spouse willing to back down. The competitive energy between Adam and Amanda is palpable, as they engage in a battle of wits and legal prowess. Their interactions are laced with sharp dialogue, clever banter, and a delightful mix of love and rivalry.

As the story unfolds, the comedic tension escalates, and the audience is treated to an array of side-splitting moments. The film brilliantly captures the essence of a married couple at odds, while also highlighting the absurdity and charm of their professional rivalry.

With its stellar cast, witty script, and skillful direction, this film is sure to keep viewers entertained from start to finish. It skillfully blends elements of romance, comedy, and courtroom drama, creating a delightful cinematic experience that will leave audiences laughing and wanting more.

Released: 1949
Directed by: George Cukor
Actors: Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, Judy Holliday

6. Woman of the Year

Tess Harding, played by Katharine Hepburn, is a political journalist who holds progressive views. On the other hand, Sam Craig, portrayed by Spencer Tracy, is a sports writer who strongly adheres to traditional values. The only connection they share is their employment at a newspaper in New York City. Although they initially despise each other, they eventually develop feelings and decide to tie the knot. However, when Tess is honored with the Woman of the Year award, their relationship faces challenges due to the reversal of traditional gender roles.

Released: 1942
Directed by: George Stevens
Actors: Katharine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, Fay Bainter

7. Remember the Night

During the Christmas season, New York District Attorney John Sargent, portrayed by Fred MacMurray, is filled with compassion and decides to show kindness to a shoplifter named Lee Leander, played by Barbara Stanwyck. He bails her out of jail and even offers her a ride back home to Indiana. Their journey, however, takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a sheriff from Pennsylvania. Amidst the chaos, they manage to introduce each other to their respective parents and as time goes on, they find themselves falling deeply in love.

Unfortunately, John’s mother does not share the same enthusiasm for their relationship and expresses her disapproval. She warns Lee to stay away from John, fearing that their involvement could harm his career. Not wanting to cause any trouble or jeopardize John’s future, Lee makes the difficult decision to leave the man she loves behind.

Released: 1940
Directed by: Mitchell Leisen
Actors: Barbara Stanwyck, Fred MacMurray, Beulah Bondi

8. Holiday Inn

In this super catchy Irving Berlin musical, we meet Jim (played by the legendary Bing Crosby) and Lila, who are part of a performing trio. These two lovebirds have big plans to quit their act and start running a cozy country hotel. But uh-oh, Lila drops a bombshell: she’s smitten with Ted, the super talented dancer in their group, played by the one and only Fred Astaire. Poor Jim’s heart gets shattered, and he decides to hightail it out of town.

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Jim transforms the inn into a swanky live entertainment venue, but only during the holiday season. And then, like a ray of sunshine, Linda (played by the charming Marjorie Reynolds) enters the scene. Jim is instantly smitten and can’t help but fall head over heels for her.

But hold your horses, folks! Just when things seem to be going smoothly for Jim and Linda, guess who shows up? Yep, you guessed it: Ted, the heartbreaker himself. Turns out he got dumped by Lila and now has his sights set on the beautiful Linda.

Oh boy, we’ve got ourselves a love triangle here! Will Jim and Linda find their happily ever after? Or will Ted swoop in and steal Linda’s heart? You’ll have to watch this musical masterpiece to find out!

Released: 1942
Directed by: Mark Sandrich
Actors: Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Marjorie Reynolds

9. The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer

Artist playboy Dickie Nugent, portrayed by the charismatic Cary Grant, finds himself in front of the stunning judge Margaret Turner, played by the talented Myrna Loy, after a scuffle breaks out at a nightclub. Using his irresistible charm, Dickie manages to convince Margaret to drop the charges against him.

On the very same day, by a twist of fate, Dickie is invited to give a lecture at a local high school. Little did he know that Margaret’s younger sister, Susan, would be attending. Shirley Temple brings Susan’s infatuation with Dickie to life, as she falls head-over-heels for him during the lecture.

The situation takes a complicated turn when Susan decides to take matters into her own hands and sneaks away to Dickie’s apartment. The hilarity ensues when this unexpected encounter leads to a court order, forcing Dickie to go on dates with the teenager in an attempt to alleviate her infatuation.

Released: 1947
Directed by: Irving Reis
Actors: Cary Grant, Myrna Loy, Shirley Temple

10. Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House

Advertising executive Jim Blandings, played by Cary Grant, finds out that his wife (Myrna Loy) wants to redecorate their New York apartment. Not keen on this idea, he suggests they move to Connecticut instead. Surprisingly, she agrees, and before they know it, they are tricked into purchasing a house that ends up being a complete nightmare. With construction and repair costs piling up, Jim becomes anxious about their financial future. To save the day, he realizes he needs to come up with a catchy new jingle that will sell ham.

Released: 1948
Directed by: H. C. Potter
Actors: Cary Grant, Myrna Loy, Melvyn Douglas

11. The More the Merrier

During World War II, there was a housing shortage in Washington, D.C. To deal with this, Connie Milligan, played by Jean Arthur, decides to rent out part of her apartment. Benjamin Dingle, a wealthy retiree played by Charles Coburn, and soldier Joe Carter, played by Joel McCrea, become her tenants. Despite being engaged to the dull Charles Pendergast, played by Richard Gaines, Connie develops feelings for Joe. When Dingle realizes their attraction, he tries to play cupid, but ends up causing trouble for everyone in the apartment.

Released: 1943
Directed by: George Stevens
Actors: Jean Arthur, Joel McCrea, Charles Coburn