My Man Godfrey 1936
"Butler! FOR THE COCK-EYEDEST FAMILY in the WHOLE WORLD!...and the butler-blonde battle was on!"
In Gregory La Cava's sparkling screwball comedy My Man Godfrey (1936), the glittering excesses of New York's elite collide with the gritty reality of the 1930s forgotten man.
Director: Gregory La Cava
Cast
William Powell
Godfrey
Carole Lombard
Irene Bullock
Alice Brady
Angelica Bullock
Gail Patrick
Cornelia Bullock
Eugene Pallette
Alexander Bullock
Jean Dixon
Molly
Alan Mowbray
Tommy Gray
Mischa Auer
Carlo
Pat Flaherty
Mike Flaherty
Robert Light
Faithful George
Frequently Asked Questions
What is My Man Godfrey (1936) about?
This 1930s screwball comedy follows Irene Bullock, a wealthy socialite who hires Godfrey Park—a homeless man living by the East River—as her family's butler to win a scavenger hunt. What begins as a farcical scheme spirals into a battle of wits, as Godfrey's quiet intelligence challenges the Bullocks' reckless privilege and exposes their flaws.
Who directed My Man Godfrey?
Gregory La Cava directed this sharp-witted comedy, infusing the film with his signature blend of satire and heart.
Who stars in My Man Godfrey?
William Powell and Carole Lombard headline the cast, with Alice Brady, Gail Patrick, and Eugene Pallette rounding out the unforgettable ensemble.
Is My Man Godfrey (1936) worth watching?
Absolutely—this comedy sparkles with timeless humor, clever dialogue, and unforgettable performances from Powell and Lombard. Its blend of satire and charm makes it a must-watch for fans of classic films and sharp social commentary.
How long is My Man Godfrey?
My Man Godfrey runs for 95 minutes, offering a perfectly paced romp through its comedic and thematic depths.
🎥 Trailer
About My Man Godfrey (1936) — The Classic Comedy That Turns Class Upside Down
In Gregory La Cava's sparkling screwball comedy My Man Godfrey (1936), the glittering excesses of New York's elite collide with the gritty reality of the 1930s forgotten man. Fifth Avenue socialite Irene Bullock rescues Godfrey Park—a down-on-his-luck vagrant living near the East River—from obscurity to claim top prize in a reckless scavenger hunt. As Irene installs Godfrey as her family's new butler, the decadent Bullocks clash with their unflappable new servant, sparking a battle of wits that unfolds with rapid-fire dialogue and razor-sharp satire. With Carole Lombard stealing scenes as the impulsive Irene and William Powell bringing dry, effortless charm to the role of Godfrey, La Cava crafts a biting yet affectionate portrait of class divides and redemption.
Beneath the film's effervescent comedy lies a sharp critique of wealth and vanity, as Godfrey's quiet dignity exposes the Bullocks' hollow extravagance. The movie's fast-paced banter and clever reversals keep every frame alive with energy, while its Depression-era backdrop adds weight to the story's themes of purpose and resilience. A timeless classic, My Man Godfrey (1936) remains a masterclass in blending humor with heart, proving that even the most spoiled hearts can be changed by a little wisdom and a lot of wit.
