Idiot's Delight 1939
"The Biggest Thrill They Ever Gave You! Norma and Clark together in the romance of a "ham" song-and-dance man and a "red-headed liar from Omaha.""
Clarence Brown's *Idiot's Delight (1939)* whisks audiences to a luxurious Alpine resort where a diverse group of travelers suddenly find themselves stranded as World War II erupts around them.
Director: Clarence Brown
Cast
Clark Gable
Harry Van
Norma Shearer
Irene Fellara
Edward Arnold
Achille Weber
Charles Coburn
Dr. Hugo Waldersee
Joseph Schildkraut
Capt. Kirvline
Burgess Meredith
Quillary
Laura Hope Crews
Madame Zuleika
Richard 'Skeets' Gallagher
'Don' Navadel
Peter Willes
Mr. Jimmy Cherry
Pat Paterson
Mrs. Cherry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Idiot's Delight (1939) about?
Set in an Alpine hotel as WWII begins, *Idiot's Delight* follows a motley crew of travelers trapped together, including a charismatic but reckless performer and a sharp-tongued woman from Omaha. Their witty repartee masks deeper anxieties as the outside world descends into turmoil.
Who directed Idiot's Delight?
Clarence Brown directed *Idiot's Delight*, known for his skill in blending emotional depth with classic Hollywood flair.
Who stars in Idiot's Delight?
The film stars Clark Gable, Norma Shearer, Edward Arnold, Charles Coburn, and Burgess Meredith.
Is Idiot's Delight (1939) worth watching?
With its stellar cast, witty script, and timely themes, *Idiot's Delight (1939)* remains a compelling watch for fans of classic cinema. While it's not rated on IMDb, its blend of romance and drama ensures it stands the test of time.
How long is Idiot's Delight?
The movie runs for 107 minutes, or roughly 1 hour and 47 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Idiot's Delight (1939) — Clark Gable and Norma Shearer's Star-Studded Pre-War Comedy-Drama
Clarence Brown's *Idiot's Delight (1939)* whisks audiences to a luxurious Alpine resort where a diverse group of travelers suddenly find themselves stranded as World War II erupts around them. The film orbits around the fiery chemistry between Clark Gable and Norma Shearer, who play a globe-trotting song-and-dance duo caught in a web of romance, survival, and sharp-witted banter. As tensions rise beyond the hotel's grand walls, the ensemble cast—featuring Edward Arnold, Charles Coburn, and Burgess Meredith—delivers a mix of biting humor and poignant drama, all set against the looming shadow of global conflict. The movie blends comedy and drama into a stylish pre-war drama, capturing the absurdity and urgency of an era on the brink.
With its sparkling dialogue and unforgettable performances, *Idiot's Delight (1939)* offers a snapshot of a world teetering between elegance and chaos. Gable's charismatic showman and Shearer's spirited ingénue anchor a story that's equal parts lighthearted frolic and sobering reflection, all wrapped in the opulence of a 1930s cinematic gem.
