THE TALK OF THE TOWN (1942)

US PREMIERE RESTORATION

Director George Stevens blends both visuals and dialogue together in this philosophical romantic comedy, proving that he is a master of his craft—even during lengthy discussion scenes. The plot pits a blue collar activist (Cary Grant), who is being framed for murder, against a law professor (Ronald Colman), who is about to be named to the Supreme Court. Colman’s landlady (Jean Arthur) believes Grant is innocent and passes him off as her gardener, setting the stage for some spirited discussions over whether to follow the letter or the spirit of the law. Both men fall for Arthur, lending a romantic element to the film. Stevens filmed two endings for the picture to let preview audiences decide whom Arthur would choose. This screening features a U.S. premiere restoration that highlights Stevens’ work with cameraman Ted Tetzlaff and includes a special appearance by the director’s son, George Stevens Jr.

d. George Stevens, 117m, DCP

DCP courtesy of Sony Pictures.

Restored in 4K by Sony Pictures Entertainment. 4K scanning, evaluation, layout, and digital image restoration completed at Cineric, Inc., New York, sourced from two 35mm nitrate fine grain masters. Color grading, conform, and DCP creation at Roundabout Entertainment with colorist David Bernstein. Audio restoration completed by John Polito at Audio Mechanics, sourced from the soundtracks of the two fine grain masters. Restoration supervised by Rita Belda.