Book Vs. Movie: The Bishop’s Wife
The 1928 novel by Robert Nathan Vs the 1947 Classic Cary Grant Film
It’s December at Book vs Movie and we are excited about covering holiday-themed films including this selection–The Bishop’s Wife. The original novella was written by Robert Nathan in 1928 is the story of a preacher, Henry Boughman, who dreams of building a huge cathedral at the expense of his relationship with his wife Julia.
An angel, Michael, appears to help Henry and his family learn that family & love is more important than status. In the meantime, Michael Falls in love with Julia and is distraught to hear they can never have a “mortal love.” Julia decides to try for another baby to fulfill her needs.
The book is an exploration of faith with vivid conversations between the preacher and a Jewish businessman and Professor Wutheridge who both wish to find out the source of why he is so single-focused on religious expression.
The movie, which features some child actors from the recently released It’s a Wonderful Life, took some liberties from the book and focused more on the possible romance of Julia and “Dudley” (Cary Grant in a typically amazing performance.” The film was directed by Henry Koster and stars David Niven and Loretta Young.
So, between the original story and the movie–which did we prefer?
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In this ep the Margos discuss:
- The life of writer Robert Nathan and his famous relatives
- The theme of religious devotion in the early 20th Century in the U.S.
- The main differences between the novella & film.
- Starring: David Niven (Bishop Henry Brougham,) Loretta Young (Julia,) Cary Grant (Dudley,) Monty Woolley (Professor Wutheridge,) James Gleason (Sylvester,) Gladys Cooper (Mrs. Agnes Hamilton,) Elsa Lanchester (Matilda,) Sarah Haden (Mrs. Duffy,) Karolyn Grimes (Debby,) and Robert J. Anderson.
Clips used:
- Cary Grant meets Debby
- The Bishop’s Wife trailer
- The kids play snowball
- Dudley flirts with Julia
- Preacher Henry gives a sermon
- Music by The Robert Mitchell Boys Choir
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