When We Are Married 1938
In the charming 1938 comedy classic *When We Are Married*, director Philip Dorté brings J.B. Priestley's witty play to life with a delightful ensemble cast.
Director: Philip Dorté
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is When We Are Married (1938) about?
This 1938 comedy follows three long-time couples discovering their marriages may not be legally valid on the day of their silver anniversaries. Chaos erupts as old friendships are tested and secrets come to light, all under the watchful eyes of a flustered photographer and a mischievous housekeeper.
Who directed When We Are Married?
The film was directed by Philip Dorté, bringing J.B. Priestley's beloved play to the screen with a light touch and keen eye for comedic timing.
Who stars in When We Are Married?
The cast includes Mae Bacon, Ernest Butcher, George Carney, Ethel Coleridge, and Betty Fleetwood among others, delivering a lively mix of comedic and dramatic performances.
Is When We Are Married (1938) worth watching?
Though the original 1938 film is believed lost, its cultural significance as one of the first televised plays and its sharp, timeless humor make it a fascinating watch for fans of classic British comedy and theater adaptations. Even without the original footage, later versions and historical context keep its legacy alive.
How long is When We Are Married?
The film runs for 145 minutes, making it a substantial viewing experience filled with wit and warmth.
About When We Are Married (1938) — A Lost Comedy Classic of Matrimonial Mistakes and Silver Anniversaries
In the charming 1938 comedy classic *When We Are Married*, director Philip Dorté brings J.B. Priestley's witty play to life with a delightful ensemble cast. The story unfolds as three long-standing couples—close friends celebrating their silver anniversaries—receive shocking news that casts doubt over the very legality of their marriages. What begins as a joyous gathering quickly spirals into chaotic hilarity, fueled by the antics of an eccentric housekeeper and the presence of a bumbling photographer. This groundbreaking production holds special historical significance as one of the first plays ever broadcast in full, unedited form on live television, a landmark moment for early broadcasting that makes its current status as a 'lost film' even more intriguing.
With its sharp dialogue and playful subversion of domestic expectations, *When We Are Married (1938)* blends gentle satire with warm-hearted nostalgia. The film captures the cozy, parlor-theater charm of Priestley's original stagecraft while introducing cinematic energy to the premise. Although the original 1938 broadcast is believed lost, its legacy lives on through later adaptations and the enduring appeal of its themes: love, legacy, and the sometimes shaky foundations of matrimony. A time capsule of wit and whimsy, this rare gem offers a glimpse into both the golden age of British comedy and the dawn of television as a storytelling medium.