Director Ernst Lubitsch provides a masterclass in how to make a romantic comedy in the endlessly charming The Shop Around the Corner.

Co-workers Alfred (James Stewart)and Klara (Margaret Sullavan) openly despise each other. Unbeknownst to the pair, however, is that they are actually carrying on a tender romance through the mail in the form of anonymously written letters. Revelations, misunderstandings, and general bedlam ensues.

The Shop Around the Corner is an excellent showcase for the “Lubitsch touch,” the supremely deft and tasteful handling of the romantic comedy conventions for which the director was renowned.