Ninotchka
Ninotchka

Ninotchka

1939Movie110 minEnglish

A stern Russian woman sent to Paris on official business finds herself attracted to a man who represents everything she is supposed to detest.

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IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes89%
Google Users86%
Director: Ernst LubitschGenres: Comedy, Romance, War

Plot Summary

A stern, devoted Soviet emissary, Nina Yakushova (Ninotchka), is sent to Paris to oversee the sale of confiscated heirlooms. Her mission is complicated by her growing attraction to Count Leon d'Algout, a charming nobleman who embodies the decadent capitalist lifestyle she despises. As Ninotchka finds herself increasingly swayed by Parisian pleasures and romance, her rigid communist ideology begins to crumble, leading to humorous and heartfelt conflicts.

Critical Reception

Ninotchka was a critical and commercial success, marking a significant departure for its star, Greta Garbo, who shed her usual tragic persona for a comedic role. Critics praised its witty script, sophisticated humor, and Garbo's surprisingly adept comedic timing, which revitalized her career. The film was lauded for its smart satire of both Soviet bureaucracy and Western capitalism.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sharp wit and sophisticated satire.
  • Greta Garbo's comedic performance was a revelation, charming critics and audiences alike.
  • Successfully blends romance and political commentary with Lubitsch's signature style.

Google audience: Viewers consistently praise Ninotchka for its brilliant humor, Greta Garbo's captivating performance, and its clever commentary on political ideologies. Many appreciate the film's timeless charm and its ability to make audiences laugh while provoking thought.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director (Ernst Lubitsch), Best Screenplay, and Best Original Story. Greta Garbo was also nominated for Best Actor.

Fun Fact

The film's tagline, 'Garbo Laughs,' was a major marketing coup, as the legendary dramatic actress had never before been seen in a comedic role.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Although Greta Garbo takes top billing here - and she's great - I think this film really belongs to the on-form Melvyn Douglas as the scheming "Leon". He is the boyfriend of the Imperial Grand Duchess "Swana" (Ina Claire) who is living in e...