It's tempting to think that, as the sparring husband and wife lawyers, Hepburn and Tracy drew on aspects of their now legendary real-life love affair. Screen chemistry alone can't account for the endless nuances, sidelong looks and timing which make Adam's Rib such a delight. There's also a generosity to their fellow actors that few major stars, then or now, would be confident enough to indulge in. Judy Holliday, playing the wife accused of shooting her philandering husband, had still not secured the lead in the film of her Broadway hit, Born Yesterday. Aware that anything else would have been a travesty, Hepburn as her defence lawyer ensured that Holliday was favoured in their scenes together and she duly got the part.

In all the best ways, Adam's Rib is a quick-fire battle-of-the-sexes comedy, with Hepburn's brittle feminism striking sparks off Tracy's bemused chauvinism. The verdict might be a victory for Hepburn, but the real winner is an underlying love and respect which made this partnership one of the all time greats.

On the DVD: Adam's Rib is presented in standard 4:3 format from a decent print, with a picture quality and mono soundtrack to please anyone who knows the film primarily from TV matinees. The lack of extras, apart from a scene index, is disappointing for a film of this stature. --Piers Ford

One of the films best aspects is its portrayal of the loving relationship between Tracy and Hepburn, as he attempts to understand and reconcile his wifes beliefs and she tries to cut him some slack. The real-life relationship is evident in the chemistry the two share, producing one of the most believable couples seen on screen, and providing a warmth at the heart of the film.

Hepburn is ideal for the part of Amanda, as she brings strength to her character without turning her into a cliche, as she is still feminine and human. Tracy is also excellent as the bewildered husband Adam, dispensing some sharp lines. The climax is a little contrived but this can be excused as romantic comedies are never the strictest with reality!

Although, this film was well-acted and witty, it rarely made me laugh out loud and some of the set-pieces seemed a little lame. Inevitably, the film has dated - comedy tastes change. Despite this, i was still entertained and the charming performances of Tracy and Hepburn kept me watching. This film has gone down as a classic of its genre and I think deservedly so.


Tracy and Hepburn in classic battle of the sexes!   January 12, 2004
 6 out of 6 found this review helpful

This classic film comedy may seem a trifle dated and even sexist by today's standards, but, politically incorrect though it may be, if only they still made them like this! A delight from start to finish, with a sparkling script delivered by the best in the business, Tracy and Hepburn being ably assisted by Aldo Ray and the delightful Judy Holliday, limbering up for her star turn in Born Yesterday. Hepburn and Tracy's real-life relationship adds great depth and intimacy to their portrayals of the battling lawyers. One of the great films.


Rich and witty   October 4, 2003
 5 out of 5 found this review helpful

Even if this movie lasted only all of its initial ten minutes, it would still be a classic! Cukor is vastly underestimated as a maker of pure cinema, just watch as the camera slides and pans and cranes and what not through New York City, with rich black & white textures and sharpness in all dimensions. The script is unfailingly witty, and obviously Hepburn & Tracy are at the top of their art. They were never better or more organic in their inter-acting. The DVD transfer is well-nigh perfect, and there is really no reason to tarry. Go get it!


early fifties girl-power glitters and shines!   February 26, 2002
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy are in great shape in this movie, fighting it out in court. They seem to have the perfect marriage, based on equality and love. Both having their careers in the world of law (Amanda has her own lawfirm, Adam is the assistent DA), they are bound to meet now and then in front of judges! When Amanda sees an article in the morningpaper about a woman who shot her husband, she can't get it out of her head and goes after it. Naturally, Adam get's the case to be the prosecutor on that same case and they find themselves opposing. It starts out funny, with little jokes, but it get's tougher on the way. Add to that a certain Kip who's in love with Amanda, stunts in the courtroom and semi-home-movies, you will have a splendid time watching it, if it was only for Spencer Tracy mixing up words and the loving Pinkie/Pinky-charade!