Heaven Can Wait Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Rich guy dies, tries to get into hell, but the devil thinks he’s too boringly naughty.

🍿 Heaven Can Wait: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Arrival in Hell and Life Review

Henry Van Cleve arrives at the gates of Hell, confident he belongs there due to his life of ‘misdemeanors.’ He’s surprised to find that ‘His Excellency’ (the Devil) needs convincing. The film unfolds as a flashback, with Henry recounting his life to justify his arrival in the underworld.

Early Life and Romantic Tendencies

Born into a wealthy New York family in the late 19th century, Henry is indulged and develops a penchant for women from a young age. His early encounters, including a flirtatious relationship with his French governess, foreshadow his future as a charming rogue.

Marriage to Martha

On his 26th birthday, Henry meets Martha Strabel, his cousin Albert’s fiancée. He quickly falls in love and elopes with her, much to the dismay of her parents and Albert. Their marriage is largely happy, but Henry’s wandering eye remains a constant source of tension.

Challenges and Reconciliation

Over the years, Henry’s flirtations lead to misunderstandings and Martha briefly leaves him, returning to her parents in Kansas. Henry, with the help of his wise grandfather, pursues her and wins her back, acknowledging the importance of their bond despite his flaws.

Later Years and Reflection

The film fast-forwards to Henry and Martha’s silver wedding anniversary. They remain devoted to each other as Henry is reminded of his life leading up to the present day. This moment reflects on their bond. Though Henry tries to stay true to his bond his womanizing heart remains.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Henry Van Cleve (Don Ameche): A wealthy and charming man recounts his life of womanizing and love to the Devil to determine his place in the afterlife.
• Martha Strabel Van Cleve (Gene Tierney): Henry’s beautiful and long-suffering wife, who deals with his indiscretions while remaining devoted to him.
• His Excellency (Laird Cregar): The charming and sophisticated Devil who listens to Henry’s life story to judge his worthiness of Hell.
• Hugo Van Cleve (Charles Coburn): Henry’s witty and supportive grandfather, who encourages his grandson’s roguish behavior.
• Mrs. Strabel (Marjorie Main): Martha’s feuding and often combative mother.
• Henry Van Cleve – Age 9 (Scotty Beckett): Depicts Henry as a child, establishing his early charm and mischievous nature.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Henry Van Cleve: “I can safely say that my whole life was one continuous misdemeanor.” – Henry’s opening line as he presents himself to ‘His Excellency’, setting the tone for his life’s recounting.
• Mademoiselle: “In your papa’s time, papa kiss mama and zen marry. But this is 1887! Time of bicycle… and people have new idea of value of kiss.” – The French governess explains evolving social attitudes to a young Henry, foreshadowing his future romantic escapades.
• Henry Van Cleve: “She wanted to buy a book called ‘How to Make Your Husband Happy.’ I told her I could save her a dollar ninety-eight.” – Henry recalls his first encounter with Martha, demonstrating his confidence and charm.
• His Excellency: “I must say, Mr. Van Cleve, you don’t seem particularly downcast at the prospect of eternal damnation.” – The Devil remarks on Henry’s nonchalant attitude towards his fate, adding to the film’s humorous tone.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,250,000 (estimated)
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 Heaven Can Wait Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved Heaven Can Wait! It’s such a charming and witty film. Gene Tierney is stunning, and Don Ameche is perfectly cast as the lovable rogue. The scene where they first meet in the bookstore is so sweet and funny. The movie has this feel-good vibe that just makes you smile. I also really enjoyed Charles Coburn as Henry’s grandfather, he steals every scene he’s in. Definitely a classic worth watching!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic Hollywood cinema”
  • “Those who appreciate sophisticated comedies”
  • “Viewers interested in films exploring morality and relationships”
  • “Admirers of Ernst Lubitsch’s directorial style”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Implied infidelity”
  • “Mild innuendo”
  • “Racial Stereotyping”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Lubitsch directs with his trademark elegance, crafting a witty and visually stunning film. Ameche delivers a charming performance as the roguish Henry, while Tierney shines as the beautiful and forgiving Martha. The supporting cast is exceptional.
• The New York Times: “A delightful comedy that showcases Lubitsch’s mastery of wit and sophistication. The film is beautifully shot in Technicolor, and the performances are uniformly excellent. A charming and entertaining cinematic experience that is still relevant today.
• Rotten Tomatoes: “Heaven Can Wait is a delightful and witty comedy that showcases Ernst Lubitsch’s unique touch. Don Ameche and Gene Tierney shine in their roles, and the film’s Technicolor visuals are stunning. A classic that remains entertaining and relevant.

Audience Reactions

Gene Tierney’s beauty and Don Ameche’s charm make this movie a delight to watch.: The witty dialogue and sophisticated humor create a timeless and entertaining experience.

The movie’s visuals and Technicolor cinematography are gorgeous.: A classic romantic comedy that still holds up after all these years.

Overall Consensus: A witty and charming romantic comedy with excellent performances and stunning visuals. A timeless classic that continues to delight audiences.

Awards

1. Hugo Awards (Best Dramatic Presentation)- 1944

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “This was Ernst Lubitsch’s first color film, adding a vibrant visual dimension to his signature sophisticated style.”
• “The film is based on the play ‘Birthday’ by Leslie Bush-Fekete, though the plot was significantly altered for the screen adaptation.”
• “Laird Cregar’s portrayal of ‘His Excellency’ was lauded for its charm and wit, offering a unique and likeable take on the Devil character.”
• “Gene Tierney’s costumes, particularly the blue dress, were highly praised and became iconic, showcasing the glamour of 1940s fashion.”

🖥️ How to Watch Heaven Can Wait?

Currently, ‘Heaven Can Wait’ (1943) is available for purchase or rental on several digital platforms. You can find it on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and other VOD services. Check your preferred streaming platform for availability in your region, as options may vary. Unfortunately as of right now there are no active streaming services with this film.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Heaven Can Wait, you might like these similar films:

• Here Comes Mr. Jordan (1941): Both films involve characters who are mistakenly taken to the afterlife and given a chance to reflect on their lives.
• The Shop Around the Corner (1940): Directed by Ernst Lubitsch, it shares his signature sophisticated humor and romantic sensibility.
• Death Takes a Holiday (1934): Explores the theme of death in a more whimsical and romantic way, similar to the afterlife elements in ‘Heaven Can Wait’.
• Defending Your Life (1991): A more modern take on the afterlife, where a man must justify his life choices in order to advance to a higher plane of existence, sharing thematic similarities with ‘Heaven Can Wait’.

🛒 Heaven Can Wait Related Products

• Heaven Can Wait (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]: High-definition digital restoration, featuring new interviews with film scholars and historians.
• Heaven Can Wait (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [CD]: Relive the unforgettable music from the film, capturing the romantic and whimsical atmosphere.
• Gene Tierney: A Life in Pictures [Hardcover]: A beautiful coffee table book showcasing the life and career of the iconic actress, featuring rare photos and insights.
• Heaven Can Wait Movie Poster: A high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster, perfect for decorating a home theater or film enthusiast’s space.

🎧 Soundtrack

Heaven Can Wait features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “By the Light of the Silvery Moon” – performed by Gus Edwards
• “The Sheik of Araby” – performed by Ted Snyder

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Elaine May On Warren Beatty & HEAVEN CAN WAIT

Ever wonder what it was like working with Warren Beatty on ‘Heaven Can Wait’? Elaine May spills the beans in this short clip, and honestly, her insights are super interesting!

Charles Grodin, star of ‘Midnight Run,’ ‘Beethoven’ and ‘Heaven Can Wait’ dies at 86 l GMA

Sad news, but a great tribute: this GMA segment remembers Charles Grodin, who you might know from ‘Heaven Can Wait’. It’s a sweet look back at his career.

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