Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
To Be or Not to Be is a 1942 American comedy-drama film directed by Ernst Lubitsch, starring Carole Lombard, Jack Benny, and Robert Stack. Set in Nazi-occupied Warsaw during World War II, the film is a satirical take on the absurdities of war and tyranny, blending elements of dark comedy and political commentary.
The Story Unfolds
Introduction to the Tura Troupe
The film begins with a Polish theater troupe led by Josef Tura (Jack Benny) and his wife, Maria Tura (Carole Lombard). The troupe is rehearsing for an anti-Nazi play, which is halted by the Polish government to avoid provoking Germany. Instead, they perform Shakespeare’s Hamlet. During their performance, the line “To be or not to be” becomes a comedic focal point as Maria meets with a young aviator, Lt. Stanislav Sobinski (Robert Stack), in her dressing room.
The Invasion of Poland
As the Nazis invade Poland, the troupe is forced to disband, and Warsaw falls under Nazi control. Lt. Sobinski escapes to England and joins the Royal Air Force. He learns that a German spy, Professor Siletsky (Stanley Ridges), is heading to Warsaw with a list of names from the Polish resistance. Sobinski is sent back to warn the resistance.
The Climax and Resolution
The Resistance Plot
Sobinski reunites with Maria, and together with the theater troupe, they devise a plan to stop Siletsky. They use their acting skills to impersonate Nazi officials, creating elaborate deceptions to protect the resistance. Josef Tura, in particular, impersonates high-ranking Nazi officers to gain crucial information and mislead the enemy.
The Final Act
In a series of clever and humorous maneuvers, the troupe manages to outwit the Nazis. They rescue the captured resistance members and thwart Siletsky’s plans. The film concludes with the theater troupe’s triumphant escape to England, where they continue their performances and resistance activities.
The Conclusion
Triumph and Satire
To Be or Not to Be ends on a high note, celebrating the cleverness and bravery of the Polish resistance. The film’s blend of comedy and political satire underscores the absurdity of totalitarianism and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
Movie Ending
To Be or Not to Be concludes with the successful escape of the theater troupe to England, where they continue their resistance efforts. The film ends with a performance of Hamlet, highlighting the triumphant spirit of art and resistance.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in To Be or Not to Be.
Type of Movie
To Be or Not to Be is a comedy-drama that combines elements of satire, political commentary, and dark humor, focusing on themes of resistance, deception, and the absurdity of tyranny.
Cast
- Carole Lombard as Maria Tura
- Jack Benny as Josef Tura
- Robert Stack as Lt. Stanislav Sobinski
- Stanley Ridges as Professor Siletsky
- Felix Bressart as Greenberg
- Lionel Atwill as Rawitch
- Sig Ruman as Col. Ehrhardt
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Werner R. Heymann, whose music complements the film’s comedic and dramatic elements.
Filming Locations
To Be or Not to Be was primarily filmed on soundstages in Hollywood, California, with set designs replicating the streets and buildings of Warsaw, Poland, during the Nazi occupation.
Awards and Nominations
To Be or Not to Be received several accolades, including:
- Academy Award: Nominated for Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture (Werner R. Heymann).
- National Film Registry: Selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Carole Lombard’s final film before her tragic death in a plane crash in 1942.
- The film’s satire of the Nazis was controversial at the time, given that it was released during World War II.
- Director Ernst Lubitsch, known for his “Lubitsch Touch,” combined humor and serious themes to create a unique tone.
Inspirations and References
To Be or Not to Be draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of those living under Nazi occupation and the role of art and theater in resistance movements. The film reflects broader themes of resilience, creativity, and the power of humor in dark times.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of To Be or Not to Be closely follows Ernst Lubitsch’s vision, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Josef Tura’s repeated interruption of his “To be or not to be” soliloquy.
- Maria Tura’s encounters with Lt. Sobinski and the comedic misunderstandings.
- The troupe’s elaborate impersonations of Nazi officials.
- The dramatic confrontation and deception of Professor Siletsky.
- The final escape and triumphant return to performing Hamlet.
Iconic Quotes
- “So, they call me Concentration Camp Ehrhardt?” – Col. Ehrhardt
- “Heil myself.” – Josef Tura (as Col. Ehrhardt)
- “To be or not to be, that is the question.” – Josef Tura
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes subtle references to Shakespeare’s works, enhancing its thematic depth.
- The use of real historical context adds layers of meaning to the comedic and satirical elements.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $1 million, and it grossed modestly at the box office due to the controversial subject matter.
- Jack Benny’s performance was a departure from his usual comedic roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
- The film has been remade in 1983, starring Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft.
Why Watch?
To Be or Not to Be offers a masterful blend of comedy, drama, and political satire, featuring standout performances, particularly by Carole Lombard and Jack Benny, and masterful direction by Ernst Lubitsch. Its blend of humor, clever writing, and historical context makes it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and satirical films.
Director’s Other Movies
Ernst Lubitsch also directed:
- Ninotchka (1939)
- Trouble in Paradise (1932)
- The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
- Heaven Can Wait (1943)
- Design for Living (1933)
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Great Dictator (1940)
- Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
- The Producers (1967)
- Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
- Duck Soup (1933)
