Lubitsch Touch

**The Lubitsch Touch** is a term coined to describe the unique filmmaking style and sensibility of the renowned German-born American director, Ernst Lubitsch. It refers to a balancing act in Lubitsch's films between light jokes and high stakes. For example, *To Be or Not to Be (1942)* is a comedy about nazis in the height of World War II.

It refers to a combination of sophistication, wit, and elegance that permeated his films, characterized by subtle humor, sly innuendo, and a lightness of touch. The Lubitsch Touch was often associated with romantic comedies and satirical social commentary, and it had a profound influence on the development of the comedy genre.

## Features

Ernst Lubitsch's films were known for their impeccable storytelling and refined visual style. He had a keen ability to create sophisticated narratives that explored complex human relationships, often delving into themes such as love, marriage, and infidelity. The Lubitsch Touch was not limited to dialogue or visual gags but encompassed the overall tone and approach to storytelling.

One of the hallmarks of the Lubitsch Touch was its use of implication and suggestion rather than explicitness. Through clever dialogue and nuanced performances, Lubitsch managed to convey risqué or controversial subjects without overtly depicting them onscreen. This subtle approach allowed him to navigate censorship restrictions and appeal to a broad audience while maintaining an air of sophistication and wit.

Lubitsch's films also featured an attention to detail and a meticulous sense of craftsmanship. His sets and costumes were often opulent and glamorous, contributing to the overall luxurious atmosphere of his movies. The Lubitsch Touch extended to the visual compositions as well, with carefully choreographed scenes and elegant camera movements that added to the film's comedic or dramatic impact.

## Examples

1. *Trouble in Paradise (1932)*: This romantic comedy exemplifies Lubitsch's mastery of sophisticated humor and sexual innuendo. The story follows a suave thief who becomes involved with a wealthy woman and her business partner. The film's dialogue is sharp and witty, and Lubitsch's direction infuses the plot with playful banter and a touch of cynicism, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and deceit.
2. *Ninotchka (1939)*: In this comedy, Greta Garbo portrays a stern Soviet envoy who travels to Paris and finds herself charmed by the city's allure. Lubitsch deftly blends satire and romance as he contrasts the rigidness of Soviet bureaucracy with the freedom and joie de vivre of Parisian culture. The film showcases Lubitsch's ability to humanize political ideologies while maintaining a light and comedic tone.
3. The Shop Around the Corner (1940): This romantic comedy tells the story of two feuding employees at a Budapest gift shop who are unaware that they are secretly pen pals and falling in love through their anonymous correspondence. Lubitsch's direction infuses the film with warmth, humor, and a touch of melancholy, capturing the complexities of human relationships with tenderness and charm.

These examples highlight the essence of the Lubitsch Touch, showcasing his ability to navigate delicate subjects with subtlety, infuse his films with wit and sophistication, and create memorable characters and stories that resonate with audiences.