FILM OF THE WEEK

Tuesday, Film4, 12.55pm and Friday, Film4, 11am

His Girl Friday –

I envy anyone who’s never experienced this classic screwball comedy before. You’re in for such a treat. Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell star as hardboiled city journalists – and former lovers – who become entangled in a high-profile murder case. One last scoop before they bid adieu. Grant’s character has ulterior motives, of course, he really just wants to rekindle the chemistry he once shared with his ex-wife. She feels the same way, although neither are prepared to admit it. His Girl Friday is one of the “fastest” comedies ever made, the witty dialogue – some of which was semi-improvised under the auspices of director Howard Hawks – is relentless. But it’s never exhausting. A magisterial farce.

Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell.