10/10
A great cast of star's in a wonderful Christmas tale.
5 January 2007
Movies that stand the test of time have a few things in common. First, a compelling story line. Second, a strong cast. Finally, the drawing factor. The Bishop's wife has all three.

Dudley, Played by Cary Grant, is an Angel sent to David Niven, the Bishop who wants to build a grand Cathedral. The angel (Cary) Is sent as an answer to his prayer. But the answer may be surprising. The cast includes Loretta Young as the Bishop's wife (Julia) and Monty Wooley as the professor. Loretta Young was a wonderful choice as a caring wife and mother. I can't say enough about Cary Grant. He is as good as it gets.

Karolyn Grimes was very charming in this picture. She Played Loretta Young and David Niven's little girl. She appeared in a number of important scenes and was simply tremendous. I had her on my radio show last year and she was very warm. She talked about how Cary Grant would read to her on the set and how kind he was. Not only to her, but to everyone around him. She said he really loved children. Karolyn also spoke warmly of Loretta Young. Their Relationship lasted long past this movie. She said Loretta sent her uplifting bible verses up until the day she passed away.

"The Bishop's Wife" was released February 16th 1948. It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It won for, Best Sound. My daughter and I were taken on a private tour of (The Lot) Formerly United Artists Studio, by a friend of ours. This was where "The Bishop's Wife" was filmed. We were taken to the executive building and shown the trophy room. "The Bishop's Wife's" Oscar for best sound was there on display.

When the filming began, Cary Grant was cast as the Bishop and David Niven as the angel. After Henry Koster took over as director, he felt the casting was wrong. The scenes that were shot to that point were tossed and they started again from the beginning. Mr. Koster was on the mark with the change, This was one of Cary Grant's most widely praised roles.

One final note. Karolyn Grimes, Who played the little girl, is best known for her role in another Classic. She Played Zu-Zu in It's a Wonderful Life. You Remember her legendary line..."Every time a bell rings an angel gets it's wings".
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