It Happened One Night

A down-and-out and drunk reporter Peter Warne (Clark Gable) is searching for his next story when he stumbles onto a New York-bound bus and Ellen Andrews (Claudette Colbert). Ellie recently dived off her father's yacht and swam herself to freedom. A socialite escaping to meet a forbidden husband, she's spoiled, entitled, and according to her, life is hard. The two argue, bicker, and trick each other until they battle themselves into love. Gable and Colbert's chemistry is undeniable (their off-screen dynamic was rumored to match their on-screen personas).

After filming wrapped, Claudette Colbert called it the worst picture she'd ever made. It won five Oscars. Audiences continue to love this film and it's clear why. The script's humor is snappy and fun. Peter Warne's tricks of flirtation in 1934 don't age -- he's as charming as ever. The film's plotline however, shows some signs of the time. Really, who meets Clark Gable on a bus these days?

What do you think about Woody Allen flicks? Watch Annie Hall with us, up next!

Originally published on LHJ.com, August 2009.