Life with Father

Life with Father

Year: 1947

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Curtiz

Comedy

In 19th-century New York City, stockbroker Clarence Day struggles to maintain order in his chaotic household, often feeling overwhelmed by his overbearing father. His wife, Vinnie, skillfully manages the family’s eccentricities, leaving Clarence feeling undermined and yearning for respect. As he grapples with family dynamics and his own challenging upbringing, Clarence finds himself questioning his values and facing a surprising revelation that threatens to upend his familiar world.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Life with Father (1947)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Life with Father (1947). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1883

The movie takes place in 1883, a time marked by rapid industrial growth and significant social change in America. This era saw the rise of urban centers and the emergence of middle-class families, reflecting the complexities of domestic life. The film captures the nuances of family dynamics during a period when societal expectations and personal aspirations often clashed.

Location

New York City, Audubon Park, Delmonico's

New York City in the late 19th century serves as a bustling backdrop for the Days' family life, characterized by its vibrant culture and business-oriented environment. Notably, Audubon Park offers a serene escape from the city's hustle, providing a perfect setting for intimate family events. Delmonico's restaurant stands out as a renowned dining establishment, known for its elegance and fine cuisine, making it a coveted destination for families like the Days.

🏙️ City 🌳 Park 🍽️ Restaurant

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Main Characters – Life with Father (1947)

Meet the key characters of Life with Father (1947), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Clarence Day

Clarence Day is a businessman determined to maintain order and efficiency in his home, mirroring his professional life. His strict and sometimes temperamental nature contrasts sharply with his loving wife's nurturing demeanor. Despite his authoritative stance, Clarence grapples with personal issues, particularly regarding faith and family, which adds depth to his character.

👔 Businessman 🎩 Traditionalist 😠 Temperamental

Vinnie Day

Vinnie Day, Clarence's sweet-tempered wife, serves as a stabilizing force within the family. Her nurturing nature allows her to navigate the complexities of her husband's personality and efficiently manage their household. Vinnie's emotional intelligence and gentle persuasion reveal her strength, as she attempts to harmonize the family dynamics and uphold traditions.

👩‍👧‍👦 Nurturer 💖 Emotional Intelligence 🔄 Peacemaker

Clarence, Jr.

Clarence, Jr. is the eldest son, an ambitious and somewhat impressionable young man heading to Yale. His character development reflects the pressures of adolescence, particularly in relation to his father. Seeking validation, he yearns for independence while navigating his feelings for a young companion, representing the typical struggles of a teenage boy.

🎓 Ambitious 🧠 Impressionable 💔 Romantic

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Major Themes – Life with Father (1947)

Explore the central themes of Life with Father (1947), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Family Dynamics

The central theme of 'Life with Father' revolves around the complexities of family relationships. The movie illustrates the challenges of parenting and marriage, particularly the balancing act between authority and affection. As Clarence Day navigates his role as a father, the film highlights the humorous yet poignant interactions between family members, emphasizing the importance of love and understanding.

⛪ Belief and Ritual

Another significant theme is the exploration of personal beliefs and societal rituals. The tension surrounding Clare's baptism reflects broader themes of faith and tradition, raising questions about religious practices and family expectations. This conflict between Clare's disinterest and Vinnie's devotion showcases the differing values within the family, ultimately driving the narrative forward.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:35

Unlock the Full Story of Life with Father

Don't stop at just watching — explore Life with Father in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Life with Father is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Life with Father Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Life with Father, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Life with Father Summary

Life with Father Timeline

Track the full timeline of Life with Father with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Life with Father Timeline

More About Life with Father

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Life with Father: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Life with Father

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