#291: LUBITSCH, Ernst: Heaven Can Wait (1943)

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LUBITSCH, Ernst (United States)
Heaven Can Wait [1943]
Spine #291
DVD


Deceased turn-of-the-century playboy Henry Van Cleve (Don Ameche) presents himself to the outer office of Hades, where he asks a bemused Satan for permission to enter the gates of hell. Though the devil doubts that Henry's sins qualify him for eternal damnation, Henry proceeds to recount a lifetime of wooing and pursuing women, his long, happy marriage to Martha (Gene Tierney) notwithstanding. Ernst Lubitsch's Heaven Can Wait, nominated for Academy Awards for best picture and director, is an enduring classic that showcases his trademark blend of wit, urbanity, and grace.

112 minutes
Color
Monaural
1:33:1 aspect ratio
Criterion Release 2005
Director/Writers


Based on the play Birthday by Lazlo Bus-Fekete.
Screenplay by Samson Raphaelson.

Film Rating (0-60):

60

The Extras

The Booklet

Eight-page wraparound featuring an essay by film scholar William Paul.

Commentary

None.

Video conversation

Between film critics Molly Haskell and Andrew Sarris.
Creativity with Bill Moyers: A Portrait of Samson Raphaelson

A 30-minute 1982 program exploring the screenwriter’s life and career.
Audio seminar

With Raphaelson and film critic Richard Corliss, recorded at New York’s Museum of Modern Art in 1977.
Lubitsch home piano recordings

Original theatrical trailer

Extras Rating (0-40):

39

60 + 39 =

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