Is How to Behave Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1936)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Comedy cinema, the 1936 release of How to Behave stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Two men working below a manhole cover wonder what they would do if a woman was to fall in. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Two men working below a manhole cover wonder what they would do if a woman was to fall in. This leads to one of the workers saying that Robert Benchley always has the best advice about any social situation. Hilarity ensues."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Anchoring the narrative with a presence that is both commanding and subtle, Robert Benchley delivers a turn that is both technically flawless and emotionally resonant. This is Comedy acting at its most potent.

The direction by Arthur Ripley is marked by a steady and professional hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 10 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is How to Behave truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 7.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, How to Behave explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1936 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Arthur Ripley respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, How to Behave is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Robert Benchley or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, How to Behave is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.