Woman of the Year Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two reporters argue, get married, and then realize feminism means you can’t cook eggs, so the patriarchy wins by exploiting breakfast.

🍿 Woman of the Year: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Initial Conflict and Attraction

Tess Harding, a celebrated international political columnist, and Sam Craig, a down-to-earth sportswriter, work for the same New York newspaper but hold vastly different worldviews. Their initial clash stems from Tess’s dismissive comments about baseball, sparking a public feud in their respective columns. However, upon meeting, a mutual attraction begins to develop, hinting at a complex relationship ahead.

Whirlwind Romance and Marriage

Despite their contrasting personalities and lifestyles, Tess and Sam embark on a whirlwind romance. Their relationship quickly escalates, culminating in a hasty marriage. The initial excitement of their union soon gives way to challenges as their differing priorities and demanding careers begin to strain their bond.

Strained Relationship and Role Reversal

As Tess’s career continues to soar, she is honored as “Woman of the Year,” further highlighting the imbalance in their relationship. Sam begins to feel neglected and resents Tess’s constant travel and lack of attention to their home life. The film explores the complexities of their clashing lifestyles and the challenges of maintaining a marriage when traditional gender roles are subverted.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Sam Craig (Spencer Tracy): A down-to-earth sportswriter who falls in love with a sophisticated political columnist, leading to marital challenges.
• Tess Harding (Katharine Hepburn): An independent and accomplished political columnist whose career clashes with her husband’s traditional expectations after they marry.
• Ellen Whitcomb (Fay Bainter): Tess’s aunt who marries her father, providing a counterpoint to Tess’s marital struggles.
• William J. Harding (Minor Watson): Tess’s father whose marriage to Ellen highlights the importance of commitment.
• ‘Pinkie’ Peters (William Bendix): Sam’s friend who represents a more traditional, blue-collar world.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Sam Craig: “The trouble with you, Tess, is that you always go to extremes.” – Sam expresses his frustration with Tess’s all-or-nothing approach to her career and their marriage.
• Tess Harding: “I’m a personality as well as a star.” – Tess declares her intention to retain her independent identity even within the context of her marriage to Sam.
• Sam Craig: “I want Tess Harding Craig, not Mrs. Sam Craig.” – Sam clarifies that he values Tess’s individuality and achievements and doesn’t want her to lose herself in their marriage.
• Tess Harding: “Oh, darling, don’t let’s quarrel. Let’s make love.” – Tess attempts to smooth over a disagreement with Sam by suggesting a physical connection rather than addressing the issue.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,032,000 (estimated)
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 Woman of the Year Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely adored this movie! Seeing Tracy and Hepburn together for the first time was magical. The baseball game scene was hilarious, and I loved how they challenged each other. I found myself laughing and feeling their frustration with their differing lifestyles. That ending scene where she tries to make breakfast is iconic, and honestly, I’ve been there! Definitely a feel-good movie that I’ll watch again and again. It made me think about finding balance in relationships.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic Hollywood cinema”
  • “Those interested in films exploring gender roles”
  • “Viewers who enjoy romantic comedies with dramatic elements”
  • “People who appreciate the acting of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “Outdated social perspectives on gender roles”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Tracy and Hepburn ignite the screen in this battle of the sexes. While some of the themes feel dated, the chemistry between the leads is timeless. A witty script and sharp performances make it a must-see.
• Variety: “Woman of the Year is a sparkling comedy elevated by the undeniable charisma of its stars. While the plot occasionally falters, the performances are consistently engaging, making it a delightful viewing experience.
• Rotten Tomatoes: “A landmark film in the Tracy-Hepburn partnership, Woman of the Year presents a complex and often hilarious look at gender roles. Its themes resonate even today, making it a classic worth revisiting.

Audience Reactions

Viewers loved Tracy and Hepburn’s onscreen chemistry.: The witty dialogue and engaging performances were praised by many.

The film sparked debates about gender roles and relationship dynamics.: The baseball scene and the kitchen scene were noted as particularly memorable.

Overall Consensus: A classic romantic comedy with undeniable chemistry between its leads, though some themes may feel dated to modern audiences. A must-see for fans of classic cinema.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Original Screenplay)- 1943

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Katharine Hepburn hand-picked Spencer Tracy for the role of Sam Craig, believing he was perfect for it. This marked the beginning of their legendary on-screen and off-screen partnership.”
• “The screenplay was written by Ring Lardner Jr. and Michael Kanin, and it won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1943.”
• “The film was directed by George Stevens. He was known for his versatility in directing various genres, including comedies, dramas, and westerns.”
• “Initially, test audiences didn’t like the film’s original ending, which led to reshoots and a different conclusion focusing on domesticity.”

🖥️ How to Watch Woman of the Year?

Currently, “Woman of the Year” is available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Check local listings for potential broadcast options. Availability may vary depending on your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Woman of the Year, you might like these similar films:

• Adam’s Rib (1949): Another Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn film that explores gender roles and marital dynamics with a comedic touch.
• His Girl Friday (1940): Features a strong, independent female journalist and the battle of the sexes in a fast-paced, witty setting.
• Desk Set (1957): A romantic comedy exploring the clash between Katharine Hepburn’s character and an efficiency expert, with themes of workplace evolution.
• Murphy Brown (1988-2018): A TV series about a fiercely independent journalist, exploring similar themes of career versus personal life, much like Tess Harding’s character.

🛒 Woman of the Year Related Products

• Katharine Hepburn: The Actresses: A documentary exploring Katharine Hepburn’s life and career, featuring rare footage and interviews. Available for digital download. Learn about the making of Woman of the Year.
• Classic Movie Posters: Woman of the Year: A high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster. Perfect for displaying your love for classic films and adding a touch of vintage charm to any room.
• Spencer Tracy: A Biography: Explore the life and career of Spencer Tracy, including details about his relationship with Katharine Hepburn and his work on Woman of the Year.
• Adam’s Rib [Blu-ray]: Witness Tracy and Hepburn’s comedic chemistry in another film.

🎧 Soundtrack

Woman of the Year features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Bridal Chorus (Here Comes the Bride)” – performed by Richard Wagner

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Woman of the Year – Spencer Tracy & Katherine Hepburn’s Kiss

Ever wonder what made that kiss so iconic? This short clip breaks down the dynamics of the scene and Katherine Hepburn’s character. I never knew the kiss was so pivotal until I watched this!

✨ Rate