The Lady Eve (1941) (Criterion Collection)

Henry, watch out for Barbara's legs

By Stephen  May 25, 2000

This is a classic screwball comedy with Henry Fonda as an heir to an Ale company who would rather spend time collecting insects. Barbara Stanwick plays a card shark, who along with her father, are out to fleece rich people on an ocean liner.Barbara ...traps Henry by tripping him and the fun begins. Barbara and her father set out to get his money, but she winds up falling for him. When Henry finds out about her being a card shark he leaves. Well, as you know, "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" and Barbara is no exception.Barbara and her father use a fellow con artist who is using the mansion next door to Henry's family. She affects an English accent and sets out for revenge. Henry is smitten by this British lady because she looks like the "card shark". When told by his bodyguard that a scam is going on he cannot believe it is her because "they look so much alike they have to be different." This is what I call the MOST willing suspension of disbelief I have ever seen. All in all, not to be missed. Read more Less