During the Nazi occupation of Poland, an acting troupe becomes embroiled in a Polish soldier's efforts to track down a German spy.
In Nazi-occupied Warsaw, a troupe of actors, led by the egotistical Josef Tura, uses their acting skills to impersonate Nazis and help the Polish resistance. Tura's wife, Maria, becomes entangled with a handsome young Polish pilot, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and dangerous espionage. The company must put on their greatest performance yet to save themselves and expose a German spy.
To Be or Not to Be was a critical and commercial success upon its release, praised for its daring blend of comedy and tragedy during wartime. Critics lauded Ernst Lubitsch's masterful direction, the sharp and witty screenplay, and the outstanding performances, particularly from Jack Benny and Carole Lombard. It is often cited as one of the greatest comedies ever made and a remarkable achievement in wartime filmmaking.
Google audience: Audiences laud the film's clever humor, sophisticated wit, and remarkable ability to find comedy in the darkest of times. Many praise the chemistry between the leads and the film's timeless quality.
Nominated for 3 Academy Awards (Best Supporting Actor, Best Original Screenplay, Best Sound Recording).
Carole Lombard famously agreed to make the film for a lower salary than usual because she wanted to work with director Ernst Lubitsch and co-star Jack Benny.
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