My Favorite Wife Poster

My Favorite Wife 1940

★ 7.0169 votes88 min📅 1940-05-17

"The funniest, fastest honeymoon ever screened!"

Classic screwball comedy *My Favorite Wife (1940)*—directed by Garson Kanin and starring the legendary Cary Grant—delivers a whirlwind of marital mishaps and romantic misunderstandings.

Director: Garson Kanin

Cast

Cary Grant
Cary Grant
Nick Arden
Irene Dunne
Irene Dunne
Ellen Wagstaff Arden
Randolph Scott
Randolph Scott
Steve Burkett
Gail Patrick
Gail Patrick
Bianca Bates
Ann Shoemaker
Ann Shoemaker
Ma
Scotty Beckett
Scotty Beckett
Tim Arden
Mary Lou Harrington
Chinch Arden
Donald MacBride
Donald MacBride
Hotel Clerk
Hugh O'Connell
Hugh O'Connell
Johnson
Granville Bates
Granville Bates
Judge Walter Bryson

Frequently Asked Questions

What is My Favorite Wife (1940) about?

*My Favorite Wife (1940)* follows Ellen Arden's dramatic return after years lost at sea, only to find her husband Nick has moved on—until he learns she spent her exile with another man. The film thrives on misunderstandings, legal loopholes, and the chaotic charm of a marriage on the brink. It's a tale of second chances, mistaken identities, and the absurdity of modern love.

Who directed My Favorite Wife?

Garson Kanin directed *My Favorite Wife (1940)*, bringing his signature wit and energy to this beloved screwball comedy.

Who stars in My Favorite Wife?

The film stars Cary Grant as the bewildered husband Nick Arden, with Irene Dunne as the unexpectedly returned Ellen Arden, alongside Randolph Scott, Gail Patrick, and Ann Shoemaker in pivotal roles.

Is My Favorite Wife (1940) worth watching?

*My Favorite Wife (1940)* is a delightful watch for fans of classic comedies, thanks to its sharp humor, iconic performances, and timeless themes. While it predates modern ratings, its enduring popularity and critical acclaim speak volumes—perfect for a cozy evening of laughter and nostalgia.

How long is My Favorite Wife?

*My Favorite Wife (1940)* runs for 88 minutes, or roughly 1 hour and 28 minutes—just enough time for its comedic fireworks to work their magic.

🎥 Trailer

About My Favorite Wife (1940) — Why Cary Grant's Most Famous Romantic Comedy Still Delights

Classic screwball comedy *My Favorite Wife (1940)*—directed by Garson Kanin and starring the legendary Cary Grant—delivers a whirlwind of marital mishaps and romantic misunderstandings. When Ellen Arden (Irene Dunne) returns home years after a shipwreck left her presumed dead, her unsuspecting husband Nick (Grant) has already remarried. But the comedy of errors escalates when Nick discovers Ellen's solo island escape included an unexpected companion. Packed with rapid-fire dialogue, witty banter, and heartfelt chaos, this 1940 gem blends romance and slapstick into a timeless farce that critiques the fragility of love under pressure.

With its sharp script and magnetic performances, *My Favorite Wife (1940)* captures the unpredictable nature of relationships, where love often collides with luck, gossip, and the best-laid plans. The film's buoyant tone and clever twists make it a standout in the Golden Age of Hollywood, appealing to fans of clever comedies and classic cinema alike. Whether you're streaming or revisiting, this movie promises laughs, swoons, and a few surprises along the way.