How Ninochka Became the Queen

In 1930s Soviet Russia, three envoys are sent to Paris to bring back a runaway comrade, who has been seduced by the city's luxuries. They are accompanied by the stern and dedicated Nina Ivanovna Yakushova, nicknamed 'Ninochka,' who is tasked with ensuring the envoys remain ideologically pure. However, upon arriving in Paris, Ninochka herself finds her rigid communist beliefs challenged by the charm and sophistication of the city, and particularly by the dashing Count Leon d'Algout.

Ninochka was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its witty script, sophisticated humor, and Greta Garbo's surprisingly adept comedic performance, which broke her established dramatic persona. It is considered one of her finest films and a classic of Hollywood screwball comedy.

• Greta Garbo's triumphant foray into comedy.

• A sharp, witty, and surprisingly progressive satire.

• Masterfully balances political commentary with romantic charm.

Google audience: Audience reviews consistently praise the film's humor, Greta Garbo's performance, and its enduring charm. Many appreciate its smart dialogue and the unexpected lightness of its touch, especially given its political themes.

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Melvyn Douglas), Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Sound Recording. Won the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actress (Greta Garbo).

Initially, Greta Garbo was hesitant to do a comedy, fearing it would ruin her dramatic image. However, director Ernst Lubitsch convinced her by emphasizing the sophisticated wit of the script and her character's transformation.